TAMPER-PROOF cash machines are set to be introduced at a Radcliffe bank repeatedly targeted by scammers.

There has been a spate of incidents at Barclays bank, in Blackburn Street, since police first reported the problem last summer.

Customers have repeatedly been warned that 'skimming' devices had been found at the cash machine, as part of a scam which involves a camera recording ATM users entering their PIN number while a fake slot - often known as a 'Lebanese Loop' - traps their bank card.

An investigation into the scam is ongoing, and police have reassured Barclays customers that the area is being monitored.

PC Harry Taylor, of the Bury South policing team, said: “This is something we are aware of and there is an ongoing police investigation.

“There is work going into it as a result of cooperation between police and Barclays.

“Barclays representatives have indicated to us that they will imminently reinstall tamper-proof cash machines, which will make it much more difficult for people to use them for fraudulent activity.

“In the meantime, we want to reassure people that were are closely monitoring the area and would like to advise them to cover their PIN numbers when using the machines in that area.”

When the scam was first reported in June, police informed local residents that the offenders were targeting the machine at night so that customers couldn't go inside the bank to report the 'broken' ATM to staff. They would then collect the stolen cards and withdraw as much money as possible from another nearby bank before the owners had time to cancel the cards.

In January, police reported discovering several iPhones and iPods at the machine which were being used as hidden cameras.

A Barclays spokesman said: "Barclays has one of the most extensive ATM networks across the UK and we are one of the leading banks in our work to ensure our machines are protected from fraudulent attacks. Unfortunately fraud is a problem for the whole banking industry and so we are constantly working hard to combat these attacks whilst ensuring that we maintain a maximum ATM service.

"We advise customers to always be vigilant when using their bank cards, for example be wary of anybody who is nearby or approaches when you are using the ATM, be alert for signs that the ATM may have been tampered with and, most importantly, ensure that you always shield your PIN.

"If your card is withheld or you notice any suspicious behaviour please notify your bank straight away- Barclays customers should call 0345 9454545 so that their card can be blocked immediately and rendered useless to the criminals. If a customer is an innocent victim of fraud, we have a policy which ensures they are refunded any losses."