CASHPOINT SAFETY ADVICE

AS MORE people get wise to the tricks of cashpoint thieves, Hertfordshire Constabulary is warning shoppers across the county not to get complacent and keep on their guard when withdrawing money from cash machines or paying with cards when shopping.

Incidents have been reported to Hertfordshire Constabulary where people have been distracted at cashpoints and have had their bank cards stolen. There have also been incidents where offenders have stolen bank cards from handbags left on the passenger seat of a car.

Officers conduct regular high visibility patrols, work with local shops and use CCTV to target would-be thieves, but it is important people remember to stay alert when using their bank cards to help prevent themselves from becoming a victim of crime.

Safety advice includes:

• NEVER disclose your PIN to anyone.
• Always look around you when approaching and using the cashpoint, if you see anyone acting suspiciously call the police or a bank official.
• If you think a cash machine has been tampered with, call the police immediately and inform the bank.
• Where possible, use a cash machine inside a bank or building society.
• When entering your PIN, use your spare hand and your body to shield the number from prying eyes or hidden cameras. If you think someone has seen your PIN you can change it at a cash machine or by contacting your bank.
• If you think someone has learned your PIN you can change it at any cash machine.
• Try not to let your card out of your sight when making a transaction. Most retailers let you put your card into the chip and PIN terminal yourself, without having to hand it over.
• Do not leave your handbag on your shopping trolley – take it with you
• Try not to leave your handbag on the front passenger seat of your car, instead place it in the foot-well, out of sight from thieves.

December 2009