The skimming device is made to look like part of the ATM

Grampian Police believe a gang is behind two recent incidents where devices have been attached to an automated telling machines (ATM).

Chief Inspector Mark McLaren said police had recovered a skimming device from an ATM in Aberdeen on 11 June and urged the public to be vigilant.

Skimming devices allow criminals to obtain users' debit card details.

Mr McLaren said: "I would urge anyone who recognises the wallpaper or picture in the photograph we have issued to contact us.

"Our message to the people who are behind this is to say that we will not tolerate this in the Grampian Police area.

It is crucial that people remain alert and let us know if they see anyone acting suspiciously near an ATM Chief Inspector Mark McLaren

"Thanks to our own activities and the extensive coverage of this issue by local media, members of the public and businesses are becoming increasingly aware of this issue."

He said the publicity would make it increasingly difficult for criminals to use the hi-tech scam.

"It is crucial that people remain alert and let us know if they see anyone acting suspiciously near an ATM, or feel that an ATM has been tampered with in any way," he added.

Ian MacDonald, of Lloyds TSB Scotland, said: "Our security division is currently inspecting all of our ATMs in and around Aberdeen city with a view to further improving security at these sites.

"We are very pleased to be working in close co-operation with the police to tackle this matter.

"Chip and PIN technology, which prevents the cloning of cards and will therefore provide customers with a further safeguard against fraud, is already being phased in across the country."