Police officers in Monmouth are warning cash point users to be on their guard to stop themselves becoming victims of cash machine fraud. This advice comes after two incidents where devices have been attached to cash points on Church Street in the town centre by which card details have been intercepted and personal identification numbers recorded. One of the incidents involved three fraudulent transactions relating to just one account. The devices have now been removed by local police and inquiries are ongoing into each incident. Officers are working closely with banks in the area to give warning and try to trace the offenders. Users of ATM machines are being warned to be extra vigilant and not to use any machines if they have suspicions that they may have been tampered with. It could result in criminals obtaining your card details and using this data for fraudulent activity. Steve Thorpe, Sergeant of the Neighbourhood Policing Team in Monmouth gives the following advice: "I would recommend that firstly people check the cash machine for any unusual devices or attachments to the card slot/key pad. "Try to use cash machines that you are familiar with so you are more likely to notice if any part of it as been altered in some way. "Be aware of individuals surrounding you when entering your PIN number. If you are suspicious of anybody avoid using that particular machine. Never force a card into a slot - it could be fitted with a device to deliberately block and trap your card. "Finally keep a close eye on your bank statements and ATM receipts. Make sure they tally up and report any discrepancies to your bank or building society immediately." If any suspicious devices are found at a cash points customers are asked to report it to the bank/building society and Police on 01633 838111 immediately.
