Police are encouraging people to be extra vigilant following a spate of thefts involving cash machines.
Four victims have been targeted in recent weeks resulting in losses of over £10,000.
A man in his 70s was targeted on 21 May as he used a cash machine inside a branch in Beeston. He had completed his cash withdrawal but had not yet removed the bank notes or card from the machine.
He was then approached by two men who told him he had dropped a £10 note. Unbeknownst to him at the time, his bank card was swapped as he was distracted.
Reports then came in that his actual bank card had been used on numerous occasions in different locations, totalling a loss of over £6,000.
The second incident, which also occurred on 21 May, happened at a cash machine in Mansfield.
A woman in her 70s again reported being distracted after she was told she had dropped some cash on the floor.
In the confusion that followed, the woman’s actual card was taken, with transactions now totalling over £4,700.
Fraud and Cyber Protect Officer Dale Richardson, of Nottinghamshire Police, said:
“An investigation into these incidents is underway and, due to the similarities between the occurrences, it is likely they are linked.
“We are pursuing multiple lines of inquiry and are doing everything we can to find those responsible, while offering support and advice to the victims as they seek to apply for their losses to be refunded.
“In the meantime, we are encouraging the public to be vigilant when using cash machines.
“Whenever possible, use a cash point located inside a well-lit bank branch or retail store.
“Cover your PIN and keep an eye on your card at all times.
“Remember to put your cash and card away instantly once the transaction is complete and ignore any potential interruptions from strangers.
“If you witness anything suspicious, please contact Nottinghamshire Police on 101.”
