POLICE APPEAL – Warning Issued Over Distraction Thieves Targeting Cash Machines

Police are on the lookout for a group of distraction thieves who are operating near ATM machines, particularly targeting vulnerable people in town centres. While the current spate of fraud has been reported in East Lancashire, Police are sharing this urgent warning and advice with all residents across the Fylde Coast.

It has been reported that a group of men have been lingering near to cash machines. When someone goes to withdraw money, the suspects have distracted them, causing the victim’s bank card to appear retained by the ATM. Soon after, a lump sum of cash has been withdrawn from the victim’s bank account.

The locations targeted include ATMs at Morrisons in Nelson, Lloyd’s and Halifax banks in Accrington, Barclay’s in Burnley, and Lloyd’s in Blackburn. It’s not impossible that this gang could choose to target other nearby areas in Lancashire. Blackpool is a magnet for these types of thieves with high footfall during peak times like Christmas By The Sea.

👥 Help Police Identify Suspects

Police have released images of two men they wish to speak to in connection with these reports of fraud.

If you know the men pictured or have any information that could assist enquiries, please get in touch with Police on 101 quoting log 0610 of 8th October.

🛑 How Distraction Theft Works – Beyond the ATM

The technique used to trap the card while observing the PIN is a common form of ATM distraction theft. However, distraction thieves and organised criminals use multiple methods across the UK to steal cards and cash. It is vital to remain alert, especially in crowded areas.

Common Distraction Techniques to Watch Out For:

• The Tap and Drop: One person taps your shoulder or suggests you have dropped something (like a £10 note or some coins). While your attention is diverted to the floor, an accomplice quickly swaps your card in the ATM or grabs your cash.
• The Spill Scam: Someone accidentally spills a drink or food on you, then offers immediate help to clean it up. While you are flustered, an accomplice will steal your wallet, purse, or card.
• The Fake Helper: Someone approaches offering assistance because they claim the machine is faulty or your card is stuck. They suggest re-entering the PIN or even offer to call the bank for you, using the distraction to swap your card or observe your PIN.

🛡️ Your Top Tips to Protect Yourself at the ATM

Fraudsters rely on speed, confidence, and confusion. We urge every resident to share these simple steps with family members and neighbours, especially those who are most vulnerable:

• Cover the PIN Pad: Always use your free hand, wallet, or body to shield the keypad completely as you enter your PIN. This prevents both prying eyes and any potential hidden cameras from capturing your code.
• Be Mindful of Surroundings: Scan the area before you start your transaction. If anyone is standing too close or acting suspiciously, stop the transaction immediately and walk away.
• Ignore Distractions: If someone tries to speak to you, taps you, or points out a distraction while you are using the machine, ignore them and immediately cancel your transaction and put your card away.
• Never Share Your PIN: Never share your PIN code with anyone—not your bank, not the police, and certainly not a stranger.
• Report Suspicion: If you see something suspicious on the cash machine itself (like loose parts or unusual devices), do not use it and report it to the bank or police straight away.

You can report non-emergency fraud to Police by calling 101 or using the online form on the website. Alternatively, you can report to ActionFraud on 0300 123 2040.

For more information on how criminals steal your bank account details, watch this video: A Gang’s 11000 Victims of ATM Card Skimming. This video details the techniques used by criminals to capture card details and PINs using skimming devices.