Cashpoint caution urged to beat fraud

CUSTOMERS are today being warned to take care after hi-tech thieves targeted cashpoints at two Suffolk supermarkets.

In the week running up to Christmas thieves inserted a car-reading device into the machines at Martlesham's Tesco store and cash was stolen.

A supermarket spokeswoman also reported security concerns at the Kesgrave store.

Some customers have reported difficulty in removing their cards and a poster now warns people to be careful when using the machines.

Fraud expert Paul Rawlings, who works in Suffolk's cheque and credit card fraud unit, urged people to take extra care with their personal details.

He said: "Bank cards are a very valuable asset and appropriate steps should be taken to look after them and to stop the information they carry falling into the hands of criminals."

A spokeswoman for Suffolk police confirmed thefts at the Martlesham store on 16, 18 and 19 December were being investigated.

And she appealed for public help in beating the card fraudsters.

She said: "We would appeal for anyone who sees a person acting suspiciously, for example standing very close to them at the cashpoint or trying to see the personal identification number, to contact us."

A spokeswoman for Tesco confirmed there had been security concerns at Martlesham and Kesgrave stores, but said both cashpoints were in working order.

She said: "The matter is in the hands of the police.

"We are working with the police to ensure that our customers are made aware and are reminded of the dangers."

Never let your card out of sight

Take care with receipts and check them against your bank statement

Shred financial information before binning it

Never write down your PIN or tell it to anyone

Never allow yourself to be distracted while using your card

Report lost or stolen cards, and any suspected fraud to the card issuer immediately.