Police are appealing for witnesses after an elderly woman became the victim of a distraction burglary in Exeter.
The male offender knocked on the woman's door on Salters Road to say he was there to check on her windows.
He was allowed in and had a conversation with the victim before leaving a short time later.
She then discovered her purse within her handbag had been stolen.
Investigating officer DC Sue Lyons said: "We want to know if there are any other victims and appealing to anyone who might have relevant information that can help catch the man responsible.
"He pretended he was checking on her windows but then made a quick exit after taking her purse.
"She is an elderly woman, who is physically fine but upset by the incident and is being supported by her family."
The suspect is described as a white male, about 40, 6ft and slim build, a very pale face, short black hair and smartly dressed in a shirt and trousers.
DC Lyons added: "We would advise people to people to be vigilant and check identification and if they have any concerns and don't believe who they should contact the police."
The distraction burglary happened at around 9.30am on Tuesday, April 9.
Anyone with information should contact DC Sue Lyons on 101 quoting reference number DE/13/31/27
The male offender knocked on the woman's door on Salters Road to say he was there to check on her windows.
He was allowed in and had a conversation with the victim before leaving a short time later.
She then discovered her purse within her handbag had been stolen.
Investigating officer DC Sue Lyons said: "We want to know if there are any other victims and appealing to anyone who might have relevant information that can help catch the man responsible.
"He pretended he was checking on her windows but then made a quick exit after taking her purse.
"She is an elderly woman, who is physically fine but upset by the incident and is being supported by her family."
The suspect is described as a white male, about 40, 6ft and slim build, a very pale face, short black hair and smartly dressed in a shirt and trousers.
DC Lyons added: "We would advise people to people to be vigilant and check identification and if they have any concerns and don't believe who they should contact the police."
The distraction burglary happened at around 9.30am on Tuesday, April 9.
Anyone with information should contact DC Sue Lyons on 101 quoting reference number DE/13/31/27
