Thieves have been posing as Pacific Gas & Electric representatives, phoning residents to ask for permission to enter a home and relight gas appliance pilot lights, the utility warns.

PG&E has received calls from customers in San Frnacisoc and San Leandro about such phone calls. The calls are part of a scam allowing criminals to gain access to a house and steal things.

PG&E representatives will always carry their identification and be willing to show it when asked, the utility said. Customers with legitimate appointments will get an automated call within 48 hours prior to the visit or a personal call reminding them, and they are encouraged to call 1 800-PGE-5000 to verify an appointment or PG&E’s presence in a community.

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