Current Trend on ATM Distraction Theft in Wolverhampton and the West Midlands.

Current Trend on ATM Distraction Theft in Wolverhampton and the West Midlands.

West Midlands Police Warns Residents About ATM Bank Card Theft Targeting Older People

West Midlands Police is raising awareness of a concerning method of theft involving individuals targeting older and vulnerable people at cash machines across the West Midlands.

The offenders are reportedly targeting people, particularly those aged 60 and over, by watching them use ATMs before distracting them and stealing their bank cards. The stolen cards are then used to withdraw cash from nearby cash machines, potentially leaving victims facing significant financial losses and distress.

Residents are urged to remain vigilant when using cash machines, be aware of their surroundings and take steps to protect their bank cards and personal banking information.

How the theft is carried out

The offenders typically follow a similar method:

Reports indicate that offenders may wear face coverings, including COVID-style masks, to conceal their identities and make identification more difficult.

If you see something suspicious, say something

You can help prevent this type of crime by following these steps and sharing this advice with family members, friends and neighbours, particularly older residents who may be more vulnerable to this method of theft.

How to protect yourself when using a cash machine

Step 1: Choose your cash machine carefully

Whenever possible, use a cash machine inside a bank, supermarket or other secure location. Be cautious if anyone appears to be loitering nearby, watching customers or approaching people who are using the machine.

Step 2: Protect your PIN

Always shield the keypad with your free hand when entering your PIN. Stand close to the machine and position yourself so that other people cannot easily see the numbers you enter. Never assume that someone standing nearby is not watching.

Step 3: Be wary of strangers offering assistance

If someone you do not know tells you that the cash machine is faulty, offers to help or attempts to draw your attention away from the transaction, remain cautious. Do not allow anyone to interfere with your card or touch the machine while you are using it.

Step 4: Never let anyone distract you during a transaction

Be alert if someone approaches you with a leaflet, piece of paper or other item while you are withdrawing cash. Do not take your attention away from the machine, your card or your surroundings. If you feel uncomfortable, cancel the transaction if it is safe to do so, retrieve your card and move to a secure location.

Step 5: Keep your bank card in sight

Never hand your bank card to a stranger or allow anyone to handle it. Once your transaction is complete, check that your card is back in your possession before leaving the cash machine. If the machine retains your card unexpectedly, contact your bank using an official telephone number.

Step 6: Do not assume the machine is faulty because someone says so

If a stranger claims that the cash machine is not working correctly, do not rely on their advice. Follow the instructions displayed on the machine and contact your bank or the cash machine operator directly if you experience a problem.

Step 7: Leave if you feel unsafe

Trust your instincts. If someone is behaving suspiciously, repeatedly approaching customers or attempting to distract people using the machine, do not feel obliged to continue your transaction. Move somewhere safe and report your concerns.

Step 8: Check your card and bank account

After using a cash machine, make sure you have your own bank card. Regularly check your bank statements and transaction notifications for unfamiliar withdrawals or payments. Report any suspicious transactions to your bank immediately.

What to do if your bank card is stolen

If you suspect that your card has been stolen, act immediately:

How to help protect older and vulnerable residents

Family members, carers, friends and neighbours can play an important role in preventing this type of crime.

Share this advice with older relatives and anyone who regularly uses cash machines.

Encourage people to use familiar, well-lit locations and, if they wish, to withdraw cash with a trusted companion.

Remind them that genuine bank staff will never require them to reveal their PIN to a stranger.

Encourage them to report suspicious behaviour, even if no theft appears to have taken place.

Check in with anyone who has been targeted and help them contact their bank or report the incident if needed.

Report suspicious activity

Members of the public are encouraged to remain alert to individuals who appear to be watching people enter their PINs, loitering around cash machines or using distractions to interfere with customers' transactions.

If a crime is taking place or someone is in immediate danger, call 999. To report a non-emergency incident or suspicious activity, contact West Midlands Police on 101 or report online through the official West Midlands Police website.

Information about suspected criminal activity can also be passed anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

By staying alert, protecting our PINs and bank cards, and reporting suspicious behaviour, we can help reduce opportunities for offenders and protect people across our communities.

Stay vigilant. Protect your PIN. Keep your bank card safe. If you see something suspicious, say something.