Cash machine menace

Cheshire and Lancashire police warn criminals are targeting Santander cash machines

Published 4th Apr 2016

Police in Cheshire and Lancashire have warned the public not to use Santander cash machines over fears they have been compromised''.

Both forces said they have received reports of issues with the bank's ATMs.

The warning follows calls about suspicious devices on the bank's machines last week.

Officers are concerned criminals have targeted the machines in a bid to steal card details and cash, and urged those who have lost money to contact Santander.

Lancashire Police said: Security at Santander ATMs in Lancs has been compromised. Advice is not to use them. If you have lost money please contact the bank and 101.''

Cheshire Police also issued a warning to avoid Santander machines in Wilmslow.

A spokesman for the Lancashire force said it is feared the issue could be more widespread.

He said: We are advising the public to be vigilant, in particular of Santander machines, but of any cash machines.

Report anything suspicious, have a visual check of the cashpoint and if in doubt leave it and go somewhere else.''

It's spread across the whole of Lancashire so it's highly likely other forces may have had reports. We do not know how many are affected.''

The force also issued advice to bank customers, including not to use a cash machine if it appears to have been tampered with and shielding the keypad when entering the PIN.

PL