Crooks who pose as window cleaners to scope out homes and steal expensive Christmas presents are being targeted by police.

Officers have sent out a warning about the bogus workmen, who appear at homes unannounced looking into ­vacant windows as they clean, or go into homes to clean the inside, then steal valuables.

The public is urged to check to ensure that window cleaners have proper identification.

Neighbourhood teams will also be ­patrolling, on the lookout for anything suspicious.

Vulnerable

Det Con Jason Mayes, from Islington’s burglary and robbery team, said: “At a time just after Christmas and the New Year when the home is likely to be full of new and expensive presents, we have been made aware of an increasing number of bogus callers and distraction burglars.

“Burglars posing as window cleaners are entering the homes of elderly and vulnerable members of the public and stealing their possessions.

“We are appealing for residents and members of the public to be vigilant and report to us any unusual behaviour.”

Call 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.