Police are warning people to beware when using cash machines after a device was tampered with in Herne Bay.

Officers received three separate reports that the machine at Santander bank in Mortimer Street had been targeted.

No cash had been stolen but inquiries are ongoing.

Sgt Nick Barton said: "We are looking at the possibility that someone was either trying to force the machine open or was attempting to fit a skimming device or a Lebanese loop.

"We want to remind people to be vigilant around cash machines, and if a machine looks as though it has been tampered with, to report it to the bank or their service provider immediately."

The first incident was reported to police on Monday, February 1 but was believed to have taken place sometime after Friday, January 22.

"We want to remind people to be vigilant around cash machines, and if a machine looks as though it has been tampered with, to report it to the bank or their service provider immediately..." - Sgt Barton

The second incident took place between 9.21am and 9.24am on Sunday, February 21, with the third on Sunday, February 28 between 5.13pm and 5.26pm.

Sgt Barton added: "People should always cover the PIN keypad as they enter their number.

"If you inset your card and it appears to be retained or jammed, check the fascia and notify the bank or your service provider immediately.

"Check your account regularly and inform your bank if your account shows any transactions you didn’t make."

Skimming devices are designed to read card details without the knowledge of the card holder, while Lebanese loops appear to swallow cards.

Often the offender will play the part of a good Samaritan and suggest that if the card holder enters their PIN and presses certain buttons the card will be returned.

The advice won't work, but the offender sees the PIN and once the person has left, will remove their card and use their PIN to withdraw money.

Police are now appealing for anyone who sees people acting suspiciously around cash machines to call 101 or 999 if a crime is in progress.

If you have any information about the Herne Bay incidents phone Kent Police on 01843 222289 or Kent Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555111 quoting reference number ZY/6722/16.