Ed. Note: The following is a news release courtesy of the Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office.

The L.A. District Attorney’s office is warning of thieves targeting seniors by going to their homes and distracting them to steal valuables.

The con artists sometimes are dressed as municipal or utility workers.

They may even flash a fake employee identification and claim they need to inspect the roof, check the water meter or take measurements.

Other times they pose as a couple with a young child and ask if they can use the bathroom.

The thieves then will get the victim in a room or an area that is isolated.

The con artist usually is accompanied by a cohort who will enter the home without the victim’s knowledge and takes items such as cash, jewelry and small electronics.

Tips for Santa Clarita Residents:

Do not unlock or open doors for unknown or uninvited visitors.

Do not let strangers inside your house or on your property.

If someone comes unannounced and wants to get inside your house, call 911.

For more information on scams that target seniors, go to the Elder Abuse/Financial Fraud pages of the District Attorney’s website.