Police to warn Wick and Thurso shoppers about ATM skimmers
Police are to visit supermarkets in Wick and Thurso this month to warn shoppers about ATM skimmers.
The Tesco stores in both towns will see officers with a mock ATM machine giving out tips to help people be on their guard for fraudulent activity.
Skimming devices are attachments placed on cash machines by fraudsters that read bank-card details without the card-holder's knowledge.
Preventions and interventions officer Constable Alan MacLennan said: "We don't want to worry people unnecessarily about the use of cash machines, but the public should be alert to this type of activity.
"Using an ATM is a routine act for many of us but there are some criminals who will try to exploit any complacency in order to try and steal personal details.
"We will be demonstrating how to check for any unusual attachments and what to do if you find something out of place.
"If in doubt do not insert your card or enter your PIN but instead report to the authorities.
"If you insert your card and it becomes jammed or retained, report it to the service provider. If you find a suspected skimming device do no try to remove it yourself but leave it to be examined by police.
"Always cover the PIN key pad as you enter the number by obscuring it with your free hand."
The police's ATM roadshow will be arriving at the local Tesco stores on Wednesday, May 29.
