A shopkeeper stood up to a hooded teen who walked in demanding money but left empty handed.
The would-be robber entered Abbeynews, in Abbey View, Dunfermline, at around 1.50pm yesterday.
A member of staff refused his demands for cash and the teenager made off empty handed.
He was last seen running along Inchkeith Drive, Dunfermline.
Detective Inspector Colin Robson said: "Thankfully no person was injured in the incident and I am appealing to anyone who may have been in the area around the time of the incident and observed any person acting matching this description or acting suspiciously."
"We have officers dedicated to investigating this crime and have increased high visibility foot patrols in the area."
Officers are now urging anyone who can assist with their enquiries to come forward.
The suspect is described as white, late teens, 5ft 5ins tall and was wearing a blue hooded jacket, dark trousers and dark trainers.
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