Shoppers are being warned to think twice before taking money out of cash machines.

It comes after reports of two skimming devices on cash machines in Sittingbourne.

Now police are urging users to be on their guard.

Police had two reports of suspicious devices on two separate machines in the area on December 22. On the second occasion, a very basic device was retrieved from the machine.

Inspector Phil Hibben from the Swale neighbourhood policing team said: "I would encourage anyone who sees a suspicious device on a cash machine to notify the bank and to contact us immediately.

"In both cases, members of the public spotted these devices and immediately made us aware and I applaud their vigilance.

"It's certainly not a regular occurrence to find such devices but if users notice anything at all suspicious on a cash machine then it is best not to use the machine and to alert us or the machine owner to your concerns."

They have issued the following advice:

• Check that there is nothing untoward with a cash machine before you use it. In particular check around the insert slot to ensure a false front has not been stuck on to the machine.
• Don't allow yourself to be distracted when using the machines. Take care not to let anyone see you entering your PIN.
• If you have any suspicions about the machine do not use it and report the matter.