Skimmers strike

One couple was robbed of close to 200 in the identity theft scam - with the money taken out in Turkey.

The victims, who did not wish to be named, had, of course, not been in Turkey and the fraud was quickly caught on.

However, they won't be getting their money back for eight to 10 days as the matter is investigated.

The account was one held by a couple to meet their household bills and was hardly every used for withdrawals.

The man explained: "I was putting my car though the MOT and drew money out to pay the mechanic.

"When I later checked the account I noticed money had been withdrawn in Turkey."

He contacted his bank, who referred him to their fraud department.

He said it was lucky the 'robbers' struck when they did as a day earlier money was in the account for their mortgage, rates and others bills: "If they'd struck sooner they could have had 1,000."

The man said: "I usually check the machine for hidden cameras but in this case they had a device in the card slot which read it off."

He went on to say: "Where do you put your money now. You can't keep it in the house because you'll be robbed and now this."

The 'MAIL' understands it's the second time the ATM has been targeted, other account holders had fell victim to the fraudsters some time ago.

Late last year a number of people fell victim to the electronic robbers when an ATM on the Portadown Road was targeted.

Reports surfaced in late October-early November that customers using the machine there had their details skimmed.

In 'skimming' operations the fraudsters place electronic devices on ATMs to read the details off bank cards and spy cameras to capture details of PIN numbers. They can then use those details to make transactions across the world.

Police advice is to keep your bank details, credits cards and any other financial information secure at all times. The security of your PIN is vital.

When using ATMs check the machine for anything unusual, shield the keypad when entering your PIN and take notice of the people around you.

If you believe you have lost money through fraudulent activity contact police and your bank.