POLICE have renewed their warning to cash machine users after a card-cloning device was found in a market town.

On Saturday afternoon, two members of the public attempted to use the cash machine at the HSBC Bank, in Market Place, Bedale.

They became suspicious after finding a plastic device covering the card slot and contacted the police.

Officers recovered a device covering the front of the machine, which will be subjected to forensic tests.

The devices work by fixing a ‘dummy’ card slot over the machine which takes a copy of users’ bank cards.

A small camera focused on the key-pad then records the victims’ personal identification (PIN) number.

The thieves are then able to make a replica of the card and have the PIN number to go with it.

Police are urging people to be on their guard when using cash machines.

Detective Constable Karen Barugh, of North Yorkshire Police, is investigating the incident.

She said: "It’s important that customers remain vigilant at all cash machines, not just those in Bedale.

"Criminals use increasingly sophisticated technology to make exact replicas of your bank cards.

"It is highly likely that they will target other towns.

"Always cover your hand when entering your PIN number and check the slot for anything unusual or suspicious, it may appear to have been tampered with or have something stuck over the card reader or key pad, look out for signs of glue or tape.

"If in doubt, don’t use the machine, don’t try to remove the device and report your concerns to the police immediately."

Police have issued the following advice to bank customers:

* Protect your PIN by standing close to the machine and shielding the key pad with your other hand;

* Be cautious if strangers offer help at a cash machine, even if your card is stuck or you're having difficulties;

* Check that other people in the queue are a reasonable distance away;

* Never reveal your PIN;

* Regularly check your account balance and report any discrepancies to your bank immediately.

Anyone with information about suspicious activity around the Bedale cash machine, or wish to report a suspect device, please call police on 0845-60-60-24-7.