Police are looking for a woman they believe has been tricking elderly or vulnerable people into giving her cash as a loan.
The woman is thought to have knocked on doors in Barking and Dagenham, claiming to be moving in next door. She would tell the victims she was suffering from a crisis, such as no electricity, and asked for a loan of between �20 to �100.
The suspect is believed to have been active across the borough and officers are now keen to speak with anyone who may have been approached or conned.
The woman is described as white, in her early 40s, of medium height and build, with a local accent.
DC Stokes said: “In a perfect world we could be trusting of a stranger at the door, but the sad reality is that some unscrupulous individuals aim to prey on the good nature of our residents.
“Please don’t hesitate to shut the door on someone if you think they may not be genuine and when the door is securely closed dial 999.”
Anyone who thinks they may have been targeted by this woman should contact DS Richard Cunningham or DC Phil Stokes of Barking and Dagenham CID by dialling 101.
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