CASHPOINT users are being warned to be on their guard against distraction thieves trying to steal cards and pin numbers.

Three incidents where a group of men tried to distract ATM users in Kidderminster, Bridgnorth and Oswestry were reported to police yesterday (Friday, November 28).

West Mercia Police are investigating the incidents and are searching for a group of two or three men.

A victim in the Bridgnorth incident, which took place at midday yesterday, has described one of the men as being a white male, aged between 20-40, of slim build, with an eastern European accent, wearing a long sleeved dark top with a hood on it.

If anyone can help police with their enquiries they should call 101 and quote reference 0186s and 0237s of 28th November 2014 or via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Officers have also issued some simple precautions people can take to protect themselves: *Never write your pin number down and keep it with your ATM card.

*Try to use ATMs in busy well-lit areas, especially after dark. Ideally use a machine inside a bank or shop or one that is monitored by CCTV. Steer clear of machines that look as though they have been vandalised.

*Having a friend with you when you withdraw money will deter thieves.

*Report anyone acting suspiciously around an ATM to police.

*If there is anything suspicious about an ATM machine don’t use it. Thieves have been known to fit small cameras to record your pin number or put false fronts on the card slot to copy your details.

*When using an ATM machine always check nobody is looking over your shoulder. They can easily see your number and then try to steel your card.

*Don’t let yourself be distracted while using an ATM. One method used by criminals is to draw the user’s attention to something on the ground (such as a £5 or £10 note) and while their attention is focussed on this another member of the group removes the card and walks away.

*If you’re going for a night out, try to withdraw the money you need at the beginning of the night. Alcohol will make you less aware and more susceptible to distraction.

*If your card gets stuck in the machine never just leave it there, report it immediately using your mobile phone. Never accept help removing it from a stranger.

*Once you have completed your transaction put your money and card away safely out of view.

*Never reveal your pin to anyone, not even bank staff.