FRAUDSTERS have been targeting ATM machines in the east of Warrington by installing devices to trap customers' cards.

Investigations are ongoing after two skimming devices have been uncovered in machines in Culcheth over the past two months.

The latest device was found in the Natwest cash point on Warrington Road by a member of the public.

The design of the device used by the thieves is simple but effective.

A false cover, which is made in the same colour and material of the cash machine, is inserted into the card slot.

This is connected to an iPod which is installed above the keypad and captures the customer entering their pin via a camera.

The iPod is hidden by a case which again is made in the same colour and material as the cash machine.

The card becomes lodged in the machine leaving the customer with no choice but to walk away without the card.

The skimming device is quickly retrieved then by the fraudster who now has the means to go on a shopping spree at the customer’s expense and can potentially run up staggering bills.

"Luckily members of the public have noticed these devices and have handed them to the police who are investigating the fraud," said Sgt Stuart Gibbard.

But others may not be so lucky and shoppers have been urged to be vigilant following the latest ATM scam to be uncovered in the town.

"General public using cash machines need to be vigilant and check the card slot prior to using the machine.

"If your card is retained for any reason, firstly don't walk away until you have tried to establish if the car slot is easily pulled out and the immediately make contact with the bank," he added.

Older machines tend to be more commonly used by fraudsters as the latest ATM designs tend to have more security.