A woman of 98 was robbed of £150 by a man claiming he was collecting it for her nephew.
When his victim answered the door he told her he was calling on behalf of her nephew and followed her into her bedroom.
There he snatched the purse, containing £150.
The theft happened last Friday afternoon in Frobisher Close, Goring, Worthing.
Police today warned residents to be on their guard and to use security measures including door chains when answering their front door.
A police spokesman said: "All unexpected callers should not be given entry until identity has been checked.
"If you are not satisfied the caller is genuine then contact police on 999."
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