A bogus workman posing as a Sky engineer has stolen a five-figure sum of money from a female pensioner in Perth.
Police Scotland is warning residents in Tayside to be vigilant following the incident at around 2.45pm on Wednesday June 12.
It is believed that the bogus workman may have been operating as part of a team.
The scam artist called at the home a 70-year-old woman requesting access to run an external cable down from her balcony.
He was in the flat for five minutes and engaged the victim in conversation.
It is understood that another person then entered the flat while the victim was engaged in conversation and stole a five figure sum of money from another room.
Following the theft officers carried out door to door enquiries and established the man had called at other homes in the block.
Inspector Anton said: “This is a despicable crime and the victim is receiving support from local officers.
“Very often it is the home addresses of the elderly and more vulnerable members of the community that they target.
“Often criminals of this type operate in small teams of two or three.
“Be suspicious of anyone cold calling at your door offering to do work, or to fix a problem you have no prior knowledge of.
“If someone calls claiming to be a workman of any description, demand to see their identification – genuine workmen will not object and should have appropriate ID.
“In some circumstances it may be wise to make them wait outside and contact the company or organisation they claim to be with for verification.
“We would also advise that people do not keep large sums of money at home.
“If, for whatever reason, your suspicions are not satisfied, do not let that caller in. Shut the door and call the police.”
Anyone with any information should contact Police Scotland on 101, quoting 2536 of 12 June or speak to any police officers.
Alternatively people can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers 100% anonymously on 0800 555 111 or via their Anonymous Online Form at crimestoppers-uk.org
