Criminals in Denver have begun targeting older homeowners, but police say it's an issue those in Southern Colorado need to be aware of too.

According to investigators, criminals are known to travel so that they don't get caught, meaning these same crooks could eventually find their way to other parts of the state.

Over the last three days, police say at least three to five homes have been targeted. Officers are not positive that they are all linked, but say each case has strong similarities to the others.

"We're looking at them as potentially being linked, but at the same time we're looking at them individually just to be careful," one officer told sister station KCNC.

In all cases, one suspect coaxed the victim, always an elderly man or woman, out of their home by saying there was working being done next door. After getting the victim out of their home, a second suspect would go inside and steal valuables.

One of the suspects is a white male over the age of 30. There is no description available for the second suspect.

Police offer the following tips to protect yourself from falling victim to this type of crime:

-Never leave your home with a stranger

-If someone claims to be from a gas or electric company, call the company first.

-Never let anyone inside your home who is asking for a favor such as using your telephone.