DEVON and Cornwall Police are warning the public to be vigilant after three card cloning devices were recovered in Teignbridge.

The three devices were found on Co-op cash machines in Teignmouth, Moretonhampstead and Chudleigh on Saturday. They are now being examined by police.

Five hundred people, possibly more, could have been hit, with thousands of pounds stolen.

Dt Sgt Alex Dawson, who is heading the enquiry said: 'We have no idea what the figure is. The one in Chudleigh was in situ for 28 hours. We are talking thousands of pounds, not hundreds.'

He said that those using Barclays ATMs might also be at risk as the fascia is identical to those at the Co-op.

'Anyone who has used machines attached to Barclays or Co-op stores over the past few days should check their accounts for any unauthorised transaction and report them immediately to their bank. Also consider changing your PIN number as a crime prevention measure.'

Co-op staff been told to report suspicious activity around the machines.

A spokesman said: 'Anyone concerned that they could have used the machines during the affected period should contact their own bank for advice at the earliest opportunity.

'The bank is now reviewing the level of security at these sites and will take the necessary action to help protect customers.

'Requests for compensation should be directed to the customer's own bank.'

Local Barclays' staff have also been asked to urge customers to be vigilant.

A Barclays' spokesman said: 'If your card is withheld or you notice any suspicious behaviour please notify your bank straight away – Barclays customers should call 0870 010 4503 – so that the card can be blocked immediately and rendered useless to the criminals.'

Three weeks ago Newton Abbot police, banking and town centre security staff acted swiftly to stop customers being affected after a sharp-eyed cctv operator spotted a cloning device being fitted to the Alliance and Leicester ATM in Courtenay Street.

A police spokesman said: 'The best defence is to check the ATM carefully before using it and to shield your hand when entering your PIN.

'Some skimming devices are very sophisticated and can be very difficult to spot.'