Cashpoint fraud alert after skimming devices are found

Incidents have been reported nationwide of cash machines which have been tampered with or modified to allow criminals to gain people’s bank details.

Police have issued advice to bank customers, including not to use a cash machine if it appears to have been tampered with and shielding the keypad when entering a pin.

In one instance earlier this week Lancashire police tweeted: “Security at Santander ATMs in Lancs has been compromised. Advice is not to use them. If you have lost money please contact the bank and 101.”

A spokesman for the force said it feared the issue could be more widespread. He said: “We are advising the public to be vigilant, in particular of Santander machines, but of any cash machines. Report anything suspicious, have a visual check of the cashpoint and if in doubt leave it and go somewhere else.

Protect yourself from cash point fraud

Action Fraud advises people to:

*Always look closely at the card insertion point of a cash machine before using it. If it looks like it may have been tampered with, do not use it.

*If you realise the machine has been tampered with after you have inserted your card, call your bank while still standing at the cash machine if it is safe to do so.

*Always shield your hand when entering your PIN into a cash point keypad.

To report a fraud, call Action Fraud on 0300 123 2040