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Those planning on giving their family members cash this Christmas need to be vigilant at the ATM, as criminals are using a scam to try and steal from them. Thieves have developed a
distraction technique to try and steal cash cards after noting down the pin number of the cash machine user. HOW CAN PEOPLE PROTECT THEMSELVES? The MET police advised: “We know it’s not
always easy, but try to be aware of anyone near you when you’re at an ATM. “Being aware of your surroundings and not being distracted makes it harder for people to take advantage and less
likely that they’ll try to. “Thieves will watch as you key in your PIN or distract you while you’re withdrawing cash. Be vigilant. Natwest bank also offered advice on staying safe against
ATM fraud, and said: "Always carefully cover your PIN from hidden cameras or prying eyes whenever you use your card. Do not keep a written record of your PIN. Never tell anyone else
your PIN or allow anyone to use your card. Don’t choose a PIN that someone could easily guess, like your date of birth. “Store the 24 hour emergency contact number for all of your cards in
your mobile phone or anywhere that’s easy to access. If your card is not returned to you by an ATM after use, call your card issuer immediately – if possible whilst at, or near, the machine.
“If you happen to notice anything unusual or suspicious about an ATM, do not use it and report it to the bank or cash machine operator. Check your statements regularly – if you spot
anything suspicious, report it to your bank straight away. “When using an ATM, make sure that look out for people close by who may be trying to distract you in order to steal your card or
pin.”