A SHARP increase in organised attacks on cash machines at Kent's supermarkets and high street banks has sparked an urgent fraud squad warning.

So far this year, there have been more than 40 incidents - at least 20 since May 30 - and all of the county's policing sectors have been targeted.

A device known as a Lebanese Loop or Marseilles Trap is being attached to card slots. When a card is inserted, it catches on the loop which stops it engaging with the machine.

The machine will not register the card has been inserted and will, in most cases, not allow a transaction or its return.

The victim is then approached and urged to type their personal identification number while the cancel key is held down.

When this fails to work, they both leave the machine, allowing the offender to later return and collect the card.

Offences usually occur outside banking hours after 5.30pm weekdays or at weekends. This allows the offender at least two days' withdrawals before the card can be blocked.

The most frequent time to commit the offence is Saturday lunchtime as the card cannot be reported lost until Monday by which time up to £1,500 could have been withdrawn.

Fraud Squad Det Insp Dave Morris said: "Take a few seconds to examine the cash machine before you try to insert your card. Check there is nothing unusual about it and make sure no one is near you or able to see you enter your PIN."

Anyone with information should call 01622 654819 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.