Cash machine and associated crime is seen as a soft touch by criminals where a lot of money can be made in a short space of time.

The team are determined to prevent, detect and deter those who are behind this type of crime by raising public awareness of the hazards and how to recognize the potential dangers.

The devices used come in all sorts of shapes and sizes and are designed to blend in with the look of a particular cash point machine. Collectively they are commonly referred to as 'Lebanese loops', a term used to describe a device consisting of a strip or sleeve of metal or plastic that is placed inside the machine's card slot trapping the card inside and preventing it from being retrieved.

Other devices include simple plastic fascia, which are stuck over the cash dispenser slot, preventing the money from coming out.

PIN numbers are invariably obtained in one of two ways. Either using a technique known as 'shoulder surfing', in which the thief watches someone enter their PIN number into the machine or by placing a small video or mobile phone camera camouflaged inside a small plastic case out of sight above the keypad.

Alternative methods on the same theme involve some form of distraction technique, usually involving two or more people. A common ploy involves one person watching you enter your PIN number whilst an accomplice diverts your attention away by dropping a £5 pound note on the floor and asking if it is yours. Whilst you are distracted the accomplice will remove your card from the machine and run off.

To maximise their chances, criminals will often disable multiple cash machines or place written 'Out of Order' signs on them in order to direct you to the machine that they have rigged up.

Whichever method is used the result is invariably the same. The cardholder walks away thinking there is something wrong with the machine, whilst the thieves walk away with their PIN number, bank card and cash and the means to withdraw more money before the bank has a chance to cancel the card.

PCSO Azevedo and PC Fludgate have been working closely with the local banks to ensure that cash machines are checked as regularly as possible. However, as a large number of cash point transactions take place outside of banking hours it is important to raise public awareness.

This type of offence is not uncommon and the team are currently investigating two reported offences of this nature.

When using a cash machine please remember to:

  • Always put your personal safety first. Do not attempt to remove any device, as they may be booby-trapped and criminals may be watching you. Always contact your bank or police immediately.
  • Be aware of others around you. If someone is crowding you or watching you, cancel the transaction and go to another machine.
  • Do not accept help from "well-meaning" strangers and never allow yourself to be distracted.
  • If there is anything unusual about the cash machine, or there are signs of tampering, do not use the machine and report it to the bank concerned immediately.
  • Stand close to the cash machine and always shield the keypad to avoid anyone seeing you enter your PIN. If your card is retained by a cash machine inform your bank or building society immediately.
  • If you deem anyone to be suspicious loitering near a cash till, dial 999 and observe them from a distance providing the operator with as much detail as possible.

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