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Cash machine fraud

Skimming, card entrapment, distraction

Skimming

The most common cash machine crime is skimming. A device fitted to the cash machine records your details. Your PIN is captured by a small overhead camera.

The offenders can then put your card details onto another card and use it in any cash machine to withdraw money from your account.

The skimming equipment is expensive and offenders, who are always nearby, have been known to attack members of the public (and police officers) who attampt to remove the devices.

Reduce the risk:

  • make sure no one can see you typing your PIN (cover your hand as you enter your number)
  • if you think a cash machine has been tampered with don't use the machine, contact the police and never attempt to remove the device yourself as you may be at risk of attack

Card entrapment

Also known as a 'Lebanese loop', this device will appear to swallow your card. Often the offender will play the part of the good Samaritan and suggest that if you enter your PIN and press certain buttons the card will be returned. The advice won't work, but you may inadvertently reveal your PIN. 

Once you leave the cash machine, the offender will remove your card which will then be used to withdraw money.

Reduce the risk:

  • when using a cash machine make sure it doesn't look as if it has been tampered with
  • If the machine takes your card, contact your card issuer immediately
  • make sure no one can see you typing your PIN - cover your hand as you enter the details  

Distraction

To carry out this type of crime the offenders work in small teams. They will arrange to distract you while you are using the cash machine - they might do this by dropping something or spilling a drink on you. Once distracted an accomplice will either steal your card, cash or skim your card.

Reduce the risk:

  • make sure nobody can see you typing your PIN - cover your hand as you enter your number
  • if someone attempts to distract you, secure your card and cash before dealing with them

 

Never attempt to remove a device from a cash machine that has been tampered with - you may put yourself at risk of attack.Action Fraud UK

 

Report fraud and get advice

You can get more advice and report suspected fraud to Action Fraud UK: