Gloucestershire Police have received reports of distraction thefts taking place within Tewkesbury and Cheltenham.
The force has issued advice which includes being cautious if someone asks you for directions, the time, about your vehicle while you are unpacking your trolley into the car.
“Please be mindful of your personal belongings, when leaving them in trolleys while out shopping, back pockets, coats and ensure you never leave your bag on the back of a chair when in restaurants. These are easy pickings for thieves.” said a police spokesperson.