POLICE have issued an alert after £500 was taken from a cashpoint machine after an elderly man was barged out of the way by a woman.
The incident happened on Wednesday, July 24, when the senior citizen went to use the cashpoint in Bleachfield Street, Alcester, at around 10.30am.
Police say the man was barged out of the way by the woman who ‘fell’ against the cashpoint.
During the incident £500 was withdrawn from the man’s account.
The woman then ran off.
This is the second offence at that particular cashpoint where the offender has forced themselves in between the member of the public and the machine at the exact moment it asks how much money needs to be withdrawn.
The woman is described as possibly East European, with long brown hair, wearing a baseball cap, dark leggings and a cream coloured top.
Police say, if possible, have your cashpoint card in your hand on approach to the machine, rather than delve into the wallet or handbag either at the machine or while standing in a queue to use it.
Have in mind the precise transactions you wish to conduct at the ATM to minimise your time at the machine
Try to use ATMs located in busy public places and ones that are well lit after dark. Check to see if anyone is hanging around. Report any suspicious behaviour on 101.
At the cashpoint, don’t use it if it appears visually different from the norm, especially around the card slot.
If with a friend or partner have them stand close to help block views of the keypad.
Be aware of somebody sitting in a car near the cashpoint and very aware of people standing behind.
If you are at all concerned about the people near you, walk away and come back later or use a different machine. Trust your instincts!
Don’t use your mobile phone during a transaction. Be totally focused on the matter in hand
Try not to be distracted by incidents around you. Be suspicious of people talking to you and of people trying to assist you with your transactions.
When inputting your PIN always stand up close to the cashpoint and cover the keypad with your other hand.
If withdrawing cash, place the cash and your card into your pocket or bag immediately and walk away. Don’t stand at the ATM counting it.
As you walk away from the ATM continue to be aware of the people around you. Try to avoid walking up some poorly observed and quiet backstreet or alley.
If you think you are being followed walk into a shop, a pub, a restaurant or some other busy place.
When getting into your car lock the doors.
Check your bank statements regularly and report any unusual transactions to the bank immediately.
If you think your PIN has been seen or copied change it immediately. You can do this at nearly all ATMs.
