Toronto police are warning women carrying purses to be aware of their surroundings following a series of street robberies.

Police say a man has snatched a number of purses in the Dundas Street West area between Dufferin Street and Ossington Avenue in February and March 2012.

The suspect is described as male, white, between five-foot-six and five-foot-nine, and in his 30s or 40s. He weighs about 180 lbs. and was last seen wearing dark clothing.

On their website, police recommend women walk with a friend, leave their purses in sight and only carry what they need. If a purse is stolen, they recommend yelling to attract attention and making a mental note of the thief's appearance. Police say to report the incident immediately, and then call financial institutions and government agencies to advise them of stolen cards and documents

Anyone with additional information is asked to call police at 416-808-1400, or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 416-222-8477.