HOUSEHOLDERS across North Yorkshire have been warned to beware of the latest doorstep-calling scam.
People have been masquerading as friendly door-to-door fishmongers and targeting elderly residents.
The tricksters are conning them out of hundreds of pounds - as well as leaving them vulnerable to potential repeat visits.
In one case, an elderly woman was conned out of almost £300 for a quantity of fish that was unmarked, unlabelled and unweighed. But, by quick intervention from police, she got her cash back.
Reports have been received from places in North Yorkshire including Richmond, Northallerton, Ampleforth, Easingwold and Kirkbymoorside.
The county council's executive member for trading standards, Carl Les, said: "We are asking everyone within the community to look out for anyone trying to sell any foods door-to-door where they are clearly not known locally.
"Local traders will always clearly identify themselves."
Anyone with information is asked to call trading standards on (01609) 766400 or police on (01609) 783131.
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