Thieves posing as charity workers steal from diners at restaurants, coffee shops in major city

What happened: Chicago police issued a business alert after eight reported thefts in which people posing as charity fundraisers stole wallets, purses and phones from diners at restaurants and coffee shops. Key numbers: Eight thefts reported between Oct. 7 and Oct. 18 in the Loop, West Loop and Near South Side. Alert issued Oct. 21. Why it matters: Police said victims' bank or credit cards were used shortly afterward at nearby department stores, and diners were urged to secure valuables and not leave them unattended on tables or counters.

Chicago police issued a business alert after eight reported thefts in which people posing as charity fundraisers stole wallets, purses and phones from diners at restaurants and coffee shops.

Police said victims' bank or credit cards were used shortly afterward at nearby department stores, and diners were urged to secure valuables and not leave them unattended on tables or counters.