POLICE are searching for a conman using scams to gain entry into homes in the Belconnen area.

Several reports have been received of a man offering to paint house numbers on driveways for money. Victims targeted are either elderly people or those in vulnerable situations.

The offender has gained access into some homes, asking for a drink or to use the bathroom, stealing money and bank cards. On occasion people have been providing the man with their bank card (and PIN) for payment if they do not have cash.

Station Sergeant Harry Hains from Crime Prevention says there are precautions people can take to minimise this happening to them.

“If you do not know the person, do not let them into your home,” Sergeant Hains says.

“If you have a security screen door, keep this locked and talk with the person through the screen or if you have a security chain, open the door with it still engaged. If you don’t want or need your number painted, politely decline, then close and lock your door.”

The man is described as Caucasian in appearance, aged in his 40s, approximately 175cm (5’9”) tall, with a slender build, dark wiry hair which is balding and clean shaven. He may wear a red hat and a shirt with a logo on the right chest.

If you have been a victim of this scam or something similar, please contact ACT Policing on 131 444. Take down as many details as you can about the person as this will assist us in identifying them.

Further tips on home security can be found at police.act.gov.au.