Police are appealing for public assistance as they investigate card skimming-related thefts across the Sydney CBD, North Sydney and Darlinghurst.
Last month, officers from South Sydney Police Area Command commenced an investigation after receiving multiple reports of fraudulent credit card activity following the use of ATMs across Sydney.
During the investigations, detectives were alerted to the following suspected fraudulent transactions;
- About 6.10pm on Sunday 7 February 2021, $3000 cash was withdrawn from a 58-year-old man's bank account without his consent from an ATM in the Sydney CBD. A short time later, a further $2500 was withdrawn from the same man's bank account from an ATM in North Sydney.
- About 9.30am on Monday 8 February 2021, $2000 was withdrawn from a 77-year-old woman's account with her consent from an ATM in Darlinghurst.
Investigations identified that the man and woman had both used an ATM at a shopping centre on Danks Street, Waterloo, in early February.
It is believed their credit card information was fraudulently acquired from the ATM through a skimming device.
As inquiries continue, police have released a CCTV image and are appealing for public assistance to identify a man who may be able to assist with their ongoing investigations.
The man depicted is described as being aged in his 30s, with a slim build and dark hair. He is depicted wearing a face mask and a bike helmet.
As inquiries continue, police are appealing for anyone who may have any information about suspicious activity in the area at the time, to call South Sydney Police or Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
Anyone who believes their card has been skimmed is urged to report the matter to the police for investigation.
Additional tips:
- Be aware of multiple EFTPOS terminals and if you can tap to pay, tap.
- Only allow your card to be swiped once.
- Don't let your card out of your sight and never let anyone see your PIN.
- Take notice of the terminal the driver is using to process your transaction and ensure it looks legitimate.
- Regularly check your statements and report any irregularities to your financial institution immediately.
- Report all suspected cases of card skimming to the police for further investigation.
