News

Walnut Creek police warn people to look out for ATM card thieves

Culprits stand behind victim entering PIN, then follow and steal wallet

Walnut Creek police said they've received reports of two subjects approaching people after watching them use an ATM or enter a PIN while making a purchase.

(Stock image)

The pair will follow the victim, tell them they dropped a bill of some value and, while the victim is distracted, take their wallet or debit card. They then use the card to make fraudulent purchases at a store, or to withdraw large sums of cash from an ATM.

Police say they want to remind people to be aware of their surroundings and stay safe.

They also urge people to not give personal information out over the phone. Police are receiving reports of another scam involving phone numbers spoofing police department phone numbers, with callers asking for personal information.

To confirm it's really a police officer, police ask people to call their publicly listed dispatch number and confirm if the officer works for the department and ask for a call back from them. Walnut Creek police dispatch can be reached at 925-935-6400.

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Walnut Creek police warn people to look out for ATM card thieves

Culprits stand behind victim entering PIN, then follow and steal wallet

by Tony Hicks / Bay City News Service

Uploaded: Thu, May 11, 2023, 5:32 am

Walnut Creek police said they've received reports of two subjects approaching people after watching them use an ATM or enter a PIN while making a purchase.

The pair will follow the victim, tell them they dropped a bill of some value and, while the victim is distracted, take their wallet or debit card. They then use the card to make fraudulent purchases at a store, or to withdraw large sums of cash from an ATM.

Police say they want to remind people to be aware of their surroundings and stay safe.

They also urge people to not give personal information out over the phone. Police are receiving reports of another scam involving phone numbers spoofing police department phone numbers, with callers asking for personal information.

To confirm it's really a police officer, police ask people to call their publicly listed dispatch number and confirm if the officer works for the department and ask for a call back from them. Walnut Creek police dispatch can be reached at 925-935-6400.

Comments

Hannah Peck
Registered user
Danville
on May 11, 2023 at 8:33 am
Hannah Peck, Danville
Registered user
on May 11, 2023 at 8:33 am

While ATMs are convenient (especially after hours and on weekends), I always withdraw cash from the teller window inside the bank. It's more discreet.

It is not wise to use an ATM at night or if strangers (regardless of their color) are nearby.


Aron Kaplan
Registered user
another community
on May 16, 2023 at 9:21 am
Aron Kaplan, another community
Registered user
on May 16, 2023 at 9:21 am

Just as bad is when the ATM eats your card or fails to issue the requested cash.


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