By Alesha Capone
Portable EFTPOS machines stolen from small businesses in the west are being used to transfer false refunds to bank accounts, according to police.
Several thefts have been reported across the past month by businesses in Point Cook, Wyndham Vale, Footscray and Seabrook.
A Victoria Police spokesperson said the offenders were entering stores in small groups, posing as customers. While store staff are distracted the offenders steal the portable EFTPOS machine, leaving behind the connecting wires.
The offenders later use the EFTPOS machine to transfer false refunds into their own bank accounts.
The spokesperson said the thefts were mainly occurring in the evening at small businesses including takeaway food stores and community supermarkets.
On one occasion, offenders stole about $5000 from a small business.
“Victoria Police is aware that many business owners and operators suffer significantly when theft occurs, having adverse implications economically but also emotionally,” the spokesperson said.
“Victoria Police always encourages businesses to have measures in place to reduce the risk of crime.
“There are a number of crime prevention strategies that businesses can adopt to prevent damage to property, and prevent theft, including obtaining CCTV technology within the premises.
“We are also encouraging businesses to secure their EFTPOS machines and keep (them) out of plain sight.”
Police have also advised stores to remove labels featuring their EFTPOS machines PINs, and to cancel the SIM in an EFTPOS machine as soon as possible, if they are a victim of theft.
The spokesperson said the EPTPOS machine thefts were being investigated and police were “exploring a number of avenues of inquiry”.
Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
