The discovery of a card retaining or skimming device at Barclays Bank, Riverhead, Sevenoaks on the evening of Wednesday 5 August has prompted police to remind people to follow some simple advice when using ATMs.

Check that there is nothing untoward with a cash machine before you use it.  In particular check around the insert slot to ensure a false front has not been stuck on to the machine.

Don’t allow yourself to be distracted when using the machines and should keep your card in sight at all times.  Take care not to let anyone see you entering your PIN.  If you have any suspicions about the machine do not use it and report the matter.

Most cases of counterfeit fraud involve skimming, a process where the genuine data on a card’s magnetic stripe is electronically copied onto another without the cardholder’s knowledge.  Often cardholders are unaware of the fraud until a statement arrives showing purchases they did not make. 

Sgt Jon Turtle said: ‘Recently we have had a number of suspicious devices or suspicious incidents reported around banks in both Sevenoaks and Tonbridge.  If people follow the advice they should avoid their card being compromised.  Please report anything suspicious to police and if you have any doubts don’t use the machine.’