Cash security

Cash Machines are an ideal opportunity for thieves to steal withdrawn funds/cards or record your pin number to gain access to your account. Today in the UK alone there are over 63,000 cash machines available for us to use.

There are a number of things you can do to protect your card when withdrawing cash from a cash machine.

Suffolk Police advise to:

• Avoid using a cash point late at night or in a deserted street
• Be quick and leave the cash point as soon as you have completed the transaction
• Cover your pin when entering it so that no one else can see it
• Never count money in the street, put it away immediately
• Be aware of your surroundings.

 

Devices

Thieves use portable devices, which are attached to the outside of the cash machines to clone your cash card. The devices give the normal appearance of a machine frontage and are simply stuck onto the machine.

Cameras are also used, often hidden in leaflet holders. Check for anything abnormal or suspicious, if you have any doubt use another machine.

 

Scams

Thieves can operate in groups at cash machines, using diversionary methods i.e. tapping you on the shoulder asking if you have dropped some money while a second person takes your card and/or money.

Be alert of who is around you, cover your pin and always opt to use the cash machines inside the branch if possible.

For more information vist the Financial Fraud Action UK website or contact your local Suffolk Police Crime Reduction Officer on 101.