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Hello Resident Stay alert around ATMS Key Safety Measures Be Vigilant: Scan your surroundings for suspicious individuals and check for signs of machine tampering, such as loose card readers, before use.Use Secure Locations: Prefer ATMs inside bank branches or in well-lit, busy areas over isolated, street-side machines.Protect Your PIN: Always obscure the keypad with your hand or body during the transaction to prevent "shoulder surfing" or hidden camera recordings.Beware of Distractions: Ignore anyone attempting to talk to you or claiming you dropped money. If disturbed, immediately cancel the transaction.Finalize Securely: Press the "Cancel" button after taking your card and cash to ensure the session is closed. Put items away immediately; do not count cash at the machine.If the Card is Retained: Remain at the machine and immediately use your mobile to report the card as lost or stolen to your bank, as fraudsters may be waiting nearby. Information Visit: https://www.westmidlands.police.uk/cp/crime-prevention/personal-safety-how-to-stay-safe/ATM-safety/ In Wednesfield & Heath Town. West Midlands Police emphasize vigilance at local shopping hubs like Bentley Bridge and Crossways Shopping Centre where anti-social behaviour and distraction thefts have been prioritised for patrol in early 2026. Specific Local Risks Digital Pickpocketing: In January 2026, police issued a specific warning for Bentley Bridge and Heath Town markets regarding thieves using handheld readers to trigger unauthorised contactless payments. High-Traffic Hotspots: Areas such as Wednesfield High Street and shopping parks are active zones for high-visibility patrols to deter "purse dippers" and shoplifters. ATM Safety Actions To protect yourself at local cash machines, West Midlands Police advise the following precautions: Shield the Keypad: Completely cover the PIN pad with your free hand or body to prevent "shoulder surfing".Ignore Distractions: If approached, ignore the person and immediately press Cancel if necessary.Inspect for Tampering: Check for loose or sticky card readers; if the machine feels unsafe, do not use it.Secure Cash Immediately: Put your card and money away immediately and do not count it at the machine.If the Machine Retains Your Card: Stay at the machine and call your bank, as scammers may be waiting nearby. 
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