THIEVES targetting people near to ATMs in Bury have struck 90 times in the last decade new research has revealed.

The data, obtained by comparison website MoneySuperMarket via Freedon of Information requests, also found that the rate of theft and robberies near ATMs is on the rise, with Greater Manchester having some of the most dangerous cashpoints in the country.

Greater Manchester Police had to deal with the highest number of incidents near ATMs in their jurisdiction of any force surveyed ­— responding to 1,497 incidences since 2007.

The figure exceeded that recorded by the second highest placed force, London's Metropolitan Police, who responded to 1,386 reports, and third placed Nottinghamshire Police, who responded to 1,175.

Bury was, however, the lowest placed borough in Greater Manchester for thefts and robberies at cashpoints in GMP's jurisdiction, which was topped by Manchester where there were a total of 568 thefts.

Superintendent Chris Hill, Force Lead for Robbery at Greater Manchester Police, said: “Reducing the number of thefts and robberies is a priority for Greater Manchester Police and we are working with partners across the Greater Manchester area to mitigate crime.

“We would urge people to be aware of their environment and surroundings, stick to well-lit areas and avoid having mobiles phones or other electronics on show when they are not in use.

“At ATMs we would always advise people to hide their PIN codes when withdrawing cash and keep their money hidden and close to them once they have used the cash machine."

The MoneySuperMarket research refers to data gathered from 33 police forces in England and Wales concerning the crimes of Theft from the Person and Robbery of Personal Property.

However, the comparison firm were unable to obtain data from 11 forces who do not use location tags making it possible to link thefts and robberies with ATMs.

Kevin Pratt, consumer affairs expert at MoneySuperMarket, said: “Cash is still king as far as many criminals are concerned, and ATMs are their ideal hunting ground. This police data highlights the importance of being vigilant and cautious when using an ATM, even in a quiet market town where you might not expect to encounter a problem.

“The rise of contactless payments via credit and debit cards and electronic devices means ATM usage generally is falling, which is why we’re hearing about dozens being closed each month. But our research suggests Brits typically make 1.5 cash payments a day each, so ATMs will continue to play an important part in British life for the foreseeable future - and the crime associated with them is likely to continue.

“If someone robs your cash or steals your card, you should immediately report it to the police. Report a stolen credit or debit card and cancel it immediately, and keep an eye out for fraudulent transactions on your account.”