SAN DIEGO -- The San Diego County Water Authority warned residents Monday to beware of people posing as employees of water agencies -- in order to steal from or defraud homeowners.

The agency issued the warning in response to a report of a possible imposter approaching Santee homeowners claiming to be a "San Diego Water Authority" employee.

Scammers typically arrive without an appointment and try to gain entry into a home by saying they have been sent to check the home's water system or test water quality, according to the county water authority's John Liarakos.

He said imposters may work in pairs, with one person talking to the resident while the other looks for valuables in the home.

Imposters may target Hispanic homeowners, especially new homeowners, said Liarakos.

The county water authority and its member agencies are not responsible for fixing problems or testing inside private residences and rarely have a reason to ask for entry, said Liarakos.

He said a legitimate water agency employee will have proper identification, be willing to show it, and provide a supervisor's phone number at the agency for verification.

Any alleged employee who refuses to wait for verification should be considered a fraud and police should be notified promptly, said Liarakos.

Concerned residents can also call the county water authority at 858-522-6600, said Liarakos.

He offered some additional tips to protect residents from water scammers:

Be wary of someone who visits without warning to collect an overdue bill; residents are notified by mail with instructions on how to pay.

Some imposters may know names of residents or property owners through identity theft or public records. Imposters may try to use the names of family members, roommates or landlords to say that person has asked them to fix or inspect something in the home.

Be wary of anyone visiting without warning claiming the need for water filters, cleaners, softeners or other products or equipment that the alleged employee is selling.

Never reveal credit card, Social Security number or other personal information to anyone unfamiliar to you over the phone. Water agency staff members will not ask for money, credit card numbers or to use your phone.