Police in Glenrothes are asking residents to stay alert when dealing with cold callers after cash was stolen from an elderly woman.
Residents in the Huntly Drive area were targeted by a man pertaining to be from a utility company over the weekend.
The caller – claiming to be from the gas board – talked his way into the property of an 83-year-old woman before subsequently stealing a sum of cash.
A further attempt was made on a neighbouring household shortly after this, although thankfully entry was not gained on that occasion.
Police say they are following a positive line of inquiry but have urged people to be wary of individuals claiming to be from an organisation when they are not.
The incident comes after it emerged British Gas workers’ uniforms had been stolen in recent weeks, with posts on social media urging people to check the identity of anyone at their door.
Local Community Sergeant Kirk Donnelly said: “It’s important when dealing with any caller that you are certain of who they say they are before granting anyone entry to your home.
“This can be checked through checking valid photographic ID if this is an expected appointment with a company or person.
“Verification can also be made by telephoning the company to check they have persons operating in the area.
“I would urge anyone who is unsure of the persons identity to just refuse them entry. Any person suspecting the caller to be bogus should contact the police on 101.”
