Benicia police issued a public alert warning Friday against an increase in fraud and thefts associated with the use of automatic teller machines, acting police Chief Mike Greene said.

“In most of the cases, the citizen has reported a suspicious person standing nearby the ATM when they were using the machine,” he said. “Some time after the transaction, the customer would notice withdrawal transactions on their bank statement that they did not make.”

Greene offered tips to help bank customers avoid being victims of these crimes.

First, they need to be aware of their surroundings when they walk up to a teller machine, as well as while using an ATM, he said.

“Also, be mindful of when and how you enter your PIN (private identification number), and do not use the ATM if someone is standing close enough they may be able to see your PIN,” Greene said.

He said customers should make sure their transactions are completed and the machine’s screen has reset to the home image for the next customer’s use before they walk away.

“Anyone who witnesses suspicious activity, persons or vehicles in or around an ATM machine is asked to call the Benicia Police Department immediately,” Greene said.

In addition, those who may have information about past illegal transactions also are asked to call the department.

He said the department can be reached at 707-745-3411, and callers also can report fraud to Detective Sergeant Roger Yokoi at 707-746-4244.

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