Important Warning: Rise in Distraction Theft at ATM Machines

Important Warning: Rise in Distraction Theft at ATM Machines

Dear, Resident

⚠️ Important Warning: Rise in Distraction Theft at ATM Machines

We have seen an increase in distraction thefts and attempts to trap bank cards using devices such as “Lebanese Loops.” Criminals use these methods to steal cards, obtain PIN numbers, or take cash while the victim is distracted.

Please take extra care when using ATM machines. An incident took place in Swanley on 05/03/2026 when a male distracted an elderly female at the cash point at Asda and took her card, suspect has then taken £2,000 from her account - investigations and enquires are continuing in the effort to tract down these individuals.

✔️ Safety Advice When Using ATM Machines

1. Be Aware of Your Surroundings

Check behind and around you before starting your transaction.

If someone stands too close, cancel your transaction and use another machine.

2. Shield Your PIN

Cover the keypad with your hand when entering your PIN.

Never share your PIN with anyone — even bank staff.

3. Avoid Distractions

Criminals may:

Ask for help or offer “assistance”

Drop something to divert your attention

Point out a fake issue with the machine

Crowd you while you’re finishing your transaction

If anything feels off, stop the transaction immediately.

⚠️ What to Look For: “Lebanese Loop” Devices

A Lebanese Loop is a small insert placed inside the card slot to trap your card. Criminals often stand nearby and wait for the victim to leave, then retrieve the device — and your card — from the machine.

Signs an ATM May Have a Lebanese Loop Installed

Look out for:

✔️ Unusual resistance when inserting your card

Your card may not slide in smoothly

It may feel like it gets caught or doesn’t fully enter

✔️ A slightly protruding or loose card slot

The card slot might look misaligned

Plastic around the slot may look bulkier, cracked, or poorly fitted

✔️ Your card fails to return after the transaction

The machine may appear to “swallow” your card

Criminals may tell you this is “normal” — it is not

✔️ Someone suspiciously close, watching the keypad or encouraging you to re‑enter your PIN

Offenders often try to observe your PIN so they can withdraw cash once they retrieve the trapped card

✔️ A false “out of service” message after you insert your card

Criminals may trigger distractions at this point to make you walk away

If You Think a Lebanese Loop Has Been Fitted

Do NOT leave the machine.

Do NOT re-enter your PIN.

Immediately call your bank from your mobile (use the number on the back of your card or official website).

If someone approaches you offering help, walk away and call police.

Report suspicious activity to police via 999 in an emergency or 101 otherwise.

✔️ General ATM Safety Tips

Use machines inside banks where possible

Put your cash away before walking off

Check for loose or tampered parts on any ATM

Trust your instincts — if something looks wrong, walk away

Please feel free to share this message far and wide, through friends and family, social media.

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Message Sent By
Steven Shipley
(Kent Police, Police constable, Swanley Neighbourhood Beat Officer)