Vancouver police are asking people to watch out for a scam called a distraction theft. In two recent cases, one near Macdonald Street and West 10th Avenue, the other near Butler Street and East 49th Avenue, someone approached an older adult, struck up a conversation or asked for help, and took money or belongings while the person was distracted.
These thefts often happen in parking lots, on the street, or right outside a bank or store. The person might ask for directions, claim to need change, or point out something on your clothing or car to get you looking away. It only takes a few seconds for a second person to reach into a bag or pocket.
If someone’s behaviour feels off, standing too close, overly friendly, or trying to rush you, it’s okay to step back and say no. Keep bags zipped and close to your body, and count cash somewhere private, not out on the sidewalk.
If you think you’ve been targeted or something was taken, report it to police rather than confronting anyone yourself.