Le Roux said at least three would-be card scam perpetrators were arrested by police after their plans and presence was reported to private security service providers patrolling the area.

“The suspects tried to flee the scene but security companies gave chase,” he said.

“Several exhibits related to the commission of such crimes were seized and the suspects were subsequently handed over to the relevant authorities for further investigation.”

The police offered several pointers to prevent and/or avoid such crimes at ATMs:

– Be alert and conscious of your surroundings when using the ATM;

– Never give your card or PIN to anyone, for any reason;

– Don’t write your PIN on the card or anything that is kept with the card;

– Do not insert your card until asked to do so by the display screen;

– Never use an ATM with a blank screen and, if the ATM is obscured from view or poorly lit, leave immediately and find another ATM;

– Stand close to the ATM and use your body and hand as shield to make sure nobody sees you keying in your PIN;

– Also, make sure you keep your hand over the card slot to make sure nobody can swop or take your card;

– Never accept help from strangers when using an ATM. You should be wary of strangers asking for help;

– Criminals work in teams- one to distract you while the other steals your card or money;

– If your card is retained or swallowed by the ATM, it is advisable to phone your bank toll-free stop card line immediately, and stop your card. This can now be done on the ATM or the specific banking App;

– Never allow a bystander to call the toll-free stop card line on your behalf

– they could be tricking you into thinking your card has been stopped

– Guards are placed at ATMs to discourage criminal activities and, therefore, cannot help you with transactions;

– If you need help, ask a bank official; – It is advisable to set a daily ATM withdrawal limit at your branch.