CANNY criminals are targeting middle aged women in the Cotswolds and using scams to hoodwink them out of cash.

Gloucestershire Police has issued a stark warning to Cotswold residents that “clever” thieves are using a variety of methods to distract shoppers and steal their valuables.

The incidents are often in supermarket carparks and items stolen include handbags, purses and wallets.

In many cases the thieves have previously watched people enter PIN numbers in the store or at the ATM before distracting them in the car park.

They then immediately use that bank card across multiple locations to get cash and buy goods, usually before the victim has even noticed their card is missing.

The thefts tend to happen on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays and they often occur in car parks because the criminals know there is less chance of being spotted on CCTV.

The thieves’ prime target is female, over the age of 60 and shopping alone, though others are targeted too.

They use a variety of methods including:

• Holding a map and asking for directions – usually to a hospital.

• Offering to help fix a wiring problem on a car.

• Deliberately bumping into people while pick-pocketing wallets and purses.

• Saying they have lost a puppy and asking the victim to help look for it.

• Standing very close behind victims when they key in their pin number at the till and using the excuse that they are trying to reach for a carrier bag.

Kim Mowday, crime reduction advisor for Gloucestershire Constabulary, said: “We are very conscious of these types of crime and we are in contact with all supermarkets in the county asking for assistance in the prevention of these thefts.

“If staff and customers can be mindful about this type of crime we can make it harder for the offenders. Be cautious at all times when approached by a seemingly kind stranger attempting to distract you from your property or possessions - always be aware of your surroundings and don’t let your guard down in public places. If you feel vulnerable simply say you can’t help.”

Police also issued advice on how to avoid being a victim of distraction theft:

• Be vigilant when entering your PIN - make sure you cover the keypad on both chip and pin machines and at ATM cash points every time you enter your PIN number.

• Keep your valuables secure - never leave them unattended, even for few moments. Keep your belongings tucked away safely in a zipped pocket or bag and use a purse chain if you have one.

• Report stolen cards - if you lose your wallet, report it to your bank immediately.

• Don’t engage with strangers in car parks asking for assistance – it’s perfectly acceptable to say ‘No, I can’t help’ if you are approached by a stranger. If they persist in trying to engage with you or won’t leave you alone, go and speak to supermarket customer service or security staff straightaway.

• Do not carry large sums of cash in your handbag or purse.

• Regularly check your bank account for possible discrepancies in withdrawals or spending.

Kim Mowday, crime reduction advisor for Gloucestershire Constabulary, continued: “If you are approached please inform the supermarket customer services or security staff. Let them know if these people are still in the car park and give staff any details of the vehicle they may be using or any other information that might help to identify them.

“It’s important that we stop their activities and where possible Police can speak to them and take any necessary action to prevent these horrible occurrences happening to the residents of Gloucestershire.”