Ottawa residents are being asked to be vigilant against the so-called "thank you gift" scam.

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Just when they may have been acclimatizing themselves to one prevalent form of “ distraction theft ,” Ottawa residents are now being asked to be vigilant against the so-called “thank you gift” theft.

Like most of the common scam, the “thank you gift” works pretty simply.

The scammers approach potential victims to ask for directions.

As the thieves get close, they place a necklace around the victim’s neck as a “thank you gift.”

In the process, the quick-fingered suspects remove the victim’s jewellery or wallets or anything else they can reach quickly

Ottawa police say they have received about 70 reports of distraction thefts citywide so far this year. This newer variation ha

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