Police have released closed-circuit television pictures of a man suspected of tampering with the external cash machine at the TSB in Alton.

They are aware of a number of customers affected by this but the bank believes there may still be a small number of people who do not realise they have been victims of a crime.

A police spokesperson said: “If you used this cashpoint on the following dates, and money was withdrawn from your account without the cash being dispensed, please report this to your bank, who will then pass on the necessary information to us. The dates reported, all in 2023, are February 21, March 25, June 4, June 14, July 2, September 3, October 1 and October 15.

“Please remember to never share your debit or credit card PIN with anyone. If you see anything unusual about a cash machine, or it’s been tampered with, don’t use it and report it to the bank as soon as possible.”

The police have also issued advice on how to avoid becoming a victim of fraud when using a cash machine.

They advise people to stand close to the machine and cover the keyboard as they type their PIN to prevent prying eyes or hidden cameras seeing it, and not to be distracted by seemingly well-meaning strangers starting a conversation or offering to help. If they persist, cancel the transaction and put the card away discreetly.

The spokesperson added: “Fraudsters sometimes fit devices to cash machines that trap your card, or ‘eat’ it, which they then retrieve as soon as you’ve left the area.

“If a cash machine eats your card for any reason, report it to your card company straight away, ideally using your mobile while you’re still in front of the machine.

“Make sure you store your card company’s 24-hour contact number in your phone.”

Anyone recognising this man should call 101 quoting crime reference 44230425468.