POLICE are urging people to be on their guard when using bank cards.
The warning comes following a spate of distraction thefts across the county – where someone watches another person when they are using cash machines or a chip-and-pin machine and then distracts them to steal their card.
Officers say people should keep an eye out for ‘shoulder surfing’ in shopping queues, which involves potential thieves observing people entering their pin and taking their card afterwards.
Police are also reminding people to look out for others – particularly those who are elderly – when they are in a supermarket and car parks as they are more vulnerable.
Detective Sergeant Wayne White said: “We are currently investigating a number of reports of distraction thefts where elderly victims are being targeted.
“We ask the public to remain vigilant and to ensure pin numbers are entered securely.”
Anyone who has information or believes they have been a victim of a distraction theft is asked to call 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.
Visit www.warwickshire.police.uk/article/3870/Personal-safety for further advice.
