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Good Evening all. Please take time to read the crime prevention advice below relating to Cash Machine Distraction Thefts which have been sadly occurring within the Acocks Green Village and surrounding areas. Cash Machine Distraction Thefts To prevent cash machine distraction theft, remain vigilant, shield your PIN, and ignore strangers during transactions. Thieves often work in pairs, using tactics like tapping your shoulder, asking for help, or claiming you dropped money to steal your card or cash. If the machine is damaged or someone is acting suspicious, leave immediately. To avoid cash machine distraction theft, you should prioritize staying vigilant and shielding your PIN at all times. Distraction theft often involves criminals working in pairs to observe your PIN (shoulder surfing) and then creating a diversion to steal your card while it is still in the machine. Common Distraction Tactics Thieves use these methods to lure your attention away from the ATM screen and card slot: The "Dropped Money" Trick: A stranger taps your shoulder or points to a £5 or £10 note on the floor, asking if you dropped it.The Spill Scam: Someone "accidentally" spills a drink or liquid over your clothing to create confusion.Fake Emergencies: A stranger may approach you with an urgent question or offer unrequested help if the machine appears to be malfunctioning.Stuck Card "Help": If your card is retained by the machine, a "helpful" bystander may suggest you re-enter your PIN or try a specific button while they observe you. How to Protect Yourself Shield the Keypad: Always use your free hand or body to completely cover the keypad when entering your PIN to block hidden cameras or "shoulder surfers".Ignore Distractions: If someone approaches you or taps you on the shoulder during a transaction, do not turn around. Finish your transaction or cancel it immediately before engaging.Check the Machine: Before inserting your card, look for signs of tampering, such as loose plastic covers, sticky residue, or misaligned graphics. If the card reader feels loose when you "wiggle" it, do not use it.Use Safer Locations: Use ATMs located inside bank branches or busy shopping centres rather than isolated street machines, as these are harder for criminals to tamper with.The "Cancel" Reflex: Once you have your cash and card, press the red "Cancel" button to ensure your session is completely closed before you walk away.Secure Cash Quickly: Put your card and cash away immediately. Do not count your money at the machine. Be Aware: Scan the area for anyone standing too close before using the ATM.Handle Cards/Cash Securely: Put your card and cash away immediately, before leaving the machine.If the Machine Retains Your Card: Do not leave the ATM. Call your bank immediately from that spot, as a fraudster may be waiting nearby to retrieve it.Report Suspicious Activity: Inform the police and your bank if you notice anything unusual. What to do if Targeted Freeze Your Card: Use your banking app to "freeze" or "lock" your card immediately to prevent further withdrawals.Stay with the Machine: If your card is trapped, do not leave it. Call your bank's official emergency number immediately while standing at the machine.Report to Police: Contact the police via 101 (non-emergency) or 999 if the crime is in progress or you feel in danger.Report Fraud: Report the incident to Report Fraud (the UK's national reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime) - www.reportfraud.police.uk, Tel – 0300 123 2040 Regards PCSO 30088 John Ludford. | 
