Nationwide issues scam alert as Britons targeted by ‘cash trapping’ at ATMs

ATM scam: Man discovers tampered with cash machine in August

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Nationwide Building Society is determined to protect both its customers and Britons at large. It has warned of a very specific scam which sees Britons directly targeted when visiting ATMs. The scam is known as cash trapping, and is becoming increasingly popular amongst unscrupulous fraudsters.

It involves criminals physically inserting a device into an ATM machine which is known sinisterly as a “glue trap”.

The infinitesimal device stops cash being dispensed, physically trapping it, in a method which could confuse unsuspecting customers.

When the person steps away, confused as to what has happened, the criminals can step in and quickly harvest the cash, making off with their spoils. 

With these scams expected to be on the rise in the run up to Christmas, a warning video has been issued by Nationwide.

In this latest release, the building society shared a number of ways Britons can actively avoid falling victim to cash trapping.

Firstly, they should check whether the “cash slit” where the money comes out is clear.

If a person can see anything in it, or the slit is covered up, they should not use the ATM and report it to Nationwide.

Next, if they do not see a flashing green or blue light when the ATM spits out the money, this should also be reported.

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Finally, if a person believes they have fallen victim to cash trapping, they will also need to act fast.

Nationwide states: “Call your bank or building society as soon as possible to report the fraud, so it can be investigated.”

The sinister devices often attached to or placed inside ATMs can be difficult to spot.

As a result, if cash is not dispensed, it will be vital for Britons to follow the advice offered by Nationwide.

In addition, there are also other ways individuals can keep themselves safe when making use of an ATM.

Firstly, people should always protect their PIN number, covering it up when they go to withdraw money.

In a similar sense, individuals should always be aware of their surroundings and who is near them when withdrawing cash.

This ensures they do not fall victim to “shoulder surfing”, where criminals look over someone’s shoulder in the hopes of stealing their details.

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When stepping away from an ATM, people are also encouraged to immediately put away their card and any cash they may have withdrawn.

This is likely to keep it safer than if someone is carrying it in their hands. 

While cash machines are generally very safe to use, it is often important to take precautionary measures to keep oneself safe. 

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