Help stop ATMs from being fraudsters 'cash machines'

Using a dummy ATM, officers from the Dedicated Cheque and Plastic Crime Unit (DCPCU) demonstrated the different techniques used by criminals targeting cash machines. A miniature pinhole camera transmitted images to a nearby plasma screen to show how the most common crimes are committed.

Crimestoppers and representatives from the UK’s cash machine network were also on hand to advise people about the simple steps that can be taken to reduce the chances of falling victim to this type of fraud.

Det Ch Insp Paul Barnard, who heads up the DCPCU, said:

"Cash machines are a very safe way to withdraw cash but they are sometimes the focus of criminal activity. By staging an event such as this we can help draw attention to the common-sense steps that people can follow – such as shielding the keypad when you enter your PIN – to reduce the chances of being a victim. We also want to reassure people that any innocent victim of cash machine fraud will get their money back from their bank or card company." 

The Dedicated Cheque and Plastic Crime Unit (DCPCU) is a special police unit – sponsored by the banking industry – that consists of police officers from the City of London and Metropolitan police forces, who work alongside banking industry fraud investigators.

Follow the top tips below to reduce the chances of being a victim of cash machine crime:

Choosing a cash machine

• Be alert and put your personal safety first.
• If there is anything unusual about the cash machine or there are signs of tampering, do not use it and report it to the bank as soon as possible.

Using a cash machine

• If someone is behaving suspiciously or watching you, cancel the transaction and go to another machine.
• Don’t get distracted. Be particularly cautious if ‘well-meaning’ strangers try to distract you or offer to help you.
• Shield your PIN. Stand close to the cash machine and always use your free hand to shield the keypad to prevent any prying eyes or hidden cameras seeing your PIN.

Leaving a cash machine

• On completing a transaction, discreetly put your money and card away before leaving the cash machine.
• Report incidents promptly. Make sure you store your bank’s phone number in your mobile. If your card is retained by the cash machine or your money is not dispensed, report the incident to your bank immediately, ideally using your mobile phone while you are still by the machine.
• Destroy or preferably shred your cash machine receipt, mini-statement or balance enquiry when you dispose of them.