How to spot this latest cashpoint camera scam

Scammers have been fitting cameras and fake card slots to ATMs in Manchester to try and access people's bank account details.

British Transport Police has issued a warning about scammers tampering with cashpoints in an attempt to clone bank cards and steal Pins using mini cameras.

The police discovered devices fitted to an ATM at Manchester Piccadilly Station.

At first glance, nothing appears out of the ordinary. It looks just like any cash machine. However, the scammers have already adapted it in such a way that they could empty your bank account.

Here’s how the scam works.

The camera

The first part of the scam is the camera, hidden behind the grey panel above the keypad in the picture below.

Photo credit: British Transport Police

This camera records you entering your Pin. It’s absolutely tiny too, so small that very few people would spot it, as the picture below highlights.

Photo credit: British Transport Police

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The card slot

The second part of the scam is a fake card slot which is placed over the real one. It copies the details of your card, giving the scammers both your card details and your Pin, allowing them to wreak havoc on your finances.

Photo credit: British Transport Police

The device was spotted on November 7, and the police have now warned people to be vigilant as there are likely to be more in use.

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Keeping safe at the cash machine

It’s a good idea to stick to ATMs in busy, well-lit areas. Have a look around you. Don’t use the machine if people are loitering around nearby.

Before you stick your card into the machine, check it over carefully. Are there are signs that it has been vandalised or changed in any way?

Does anything appear to have been added on? If you are at all nervous about the ATM, simply walk away.

And if you realise the machine has been tampered with after you've inserted your card, call your bank while standing at the cash machine, so long as it is safe to do so.

When you enter your PIN, shield it with your hand so that anyone standing nearby cannot see it. This may also block a camera from being able to see what you enter too.

If you do find out your card details have been copied then contact your bank or building society immediately.

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