Norwich: Warning To Shoppers Using Cash Machines

Police in Norwich are urging people to be vigilant when using cash machines following three incidents in the city.

In all cases, suspects targeted victims as they used bank cards to withdraw cash before distracting them and stealing the card.

Between 2.40pm and 2.55pm thieves targeted a woman using a cash machine inside HSBC in London Street. The victim was in the process of making a cash withdrawal when a man approached her, waving leaflets in front of her saying the machine was broken. In the time she was distracted a second suspect has cancelled the transaction and removed the card. A short time later £500 has been withdrawn from her account.

Two similar incidents happened in the foyer at Lloyds TSB in Gentlemans Walk at 2.30pm and 3.25pm where again, the victims were distracted by a man claiming the cash machines were not working. A second suspect stole the bank cards before making fraudulent transactions of £300 and £500.

People are reminded to be aware of their surroundings when using cash machines. Do not let yourself become distracted whilst using your card, shield your PIN and keep your bag and wallet secure. Ensure you take your card and money when you leave the machine, and if you feel unsafe or the machine appears to have been tampered with, do not use it.