NORWICH – The Norwich City Police Department is warning residents to beware of a new scam that’s popped up in the area and across several other regions of New York State.

Authorities have received several complaints from city dwellers concerning possible criminals posing as door-to-door vendors. And two recent incidents, while different in their approach, ended with similar results: one involving a man asking to buy antique furniture, possibly in an effort to scope out the house for a future burglary, the second involving an elderly female resident purchasing magazines for “the men serving in Afghanistan,” said Norwich Police Chief Joseph Angelino.

“There are certain people out there whose only job is to separate a victim from their money,” added Angelino. “Please don’t help them do this ... there are plenty of goods and services available right here in town.”

That second incident, according to the chief, ended with the woman writing a check – which was subsequently cashed – although there is no way to verify the authenticity of any subscriptions allegedly sent overseas.

“I’ve deployed in the military and I know several publishing companies send free magazines to all military units deployed,” said Angelino. “There is no need for citizens to do this unless they are sending directly to a friend or family member.”