Dear member,

I am writing to inform you of a recent report of a distraction technique that is being used to steal personal property. The most recent report states that an offender has approached a member of public and told them something was wrong with their car, gesturing to the rear. The member of public has then walked to the rear of their vehicle to inspect it and a second offender has then reached into their vehicle to remove items. A purse was stolen and soon after, debit cards were used in multiple stores. This is currently under investigation. 

If you are approached by anyone you don't know, please ensure that any valuables are safely on your person, or lock the vehicle behind you, and if you are not sure, you can politely tell them you will sort it another time or make your excuses. If you are scared for your safety or a crime is in action, please call 999 or to report a non emergency incident, phone 101 or report online at herts.police.uk.