Supermarkets and ATMs are the locations of a new sleight-of-hand crime trend the Los Altos Police Department (LAPD), and other local police departments, see emerging.
The incidents unfold like this, according to LAPD Sgt. Stephen Spillman: The suspect closely watches an unsuspecting customer using a supermarket self-checkout or ATM machine, deciphering their four-number personal identification number.
As the victim turns to leave, that’s when the suspect makes their move, Spillman wrote in an email.
“… A suspect will approach and claim the victim either left money or dropped cash nearby,” Spilman stated. “This distraction technique lures the victim’s attention away from their belongings, giving the suspect an opportunity to use sleight-of-hand methods to steal the victim’s debit or credit card – often without immediate detection.”
The suspect, now in possession of the victim’s card, then makes a number of transactions in the surrounding area.
When using self-checkout or ATM machines, Spillman suggested customers hide their PIN when using such machines and avoid engaging with people afterward. This is especially relevant when a stranger tells a customer they left something behind.
Spillman said those who have been approached in a similar manner after using an ATM or self-checkout should immediately check their pockets, wallets and purses to ensure nothing is missing. If a card is missing, he encourages the customer call their bank and freeze or cancel their credit card or bank account.
“The Los Altos Police Department is actively investigating these incidents and urges anyone with information or who believes they have been a victim of such a theft to contact us,” Spillman stated.
