Hampshire Constabulary’s Financial Investigation Unit is urging members of the public to ignore inaccurate advice regarding PIN numbers and cashpoint robberies.
The force has been contacted, after several websites and TV/radio broadcasts have inaccurately stated that anyone who is asked to withdraw money from an ATM machine, against their will, should enter their Personal Identification Number (PIN) in reverse order, and this will automatically inform police.
This information is completely inaccurate and the force is not automatically informed if an individual types in their PIN backwards.
Doing so could result in the cardholder having their card seized by the ATM.
Detective Sergeant Andy Marker, of the Financial Investigation Unit, said: “This information is a complete myth and I would urge all members of the public to ignore it.
“Before anyone uses a cash machine they should remain vigilant.
“Check that there is no-one suspicious hanging around near the ATM, and if you do suspect anything out of the ordinary then don’t use the machine.
“If you are threatened at a cash point our advice would be to hand over your wallet and cash card rather than putting yourself at risk, and contact police immediately.â€Â
Enquiries have also been made with APACS (Association for Payment Clearing Services), the UK authority on automated payments, who have confirmed that this information is inaccurate and should be ignored.
Image Intro ©Island PulseÂ
This article has been read 82 times!
