Skimming Device Disguised as iPod Nano Found at Kingswells Co-op ATM
A suspicious device resembling an iPod nano was found attached to the Kingswells Co-op cash machine on the night of Monday, 5 May 2025. Although the device appeared harmless, it was being used to conceal a card skimming setup. Police were notified and launched an investigation.
While an actual iPod nano cannot read cards or record PINs, its compact design made it an effective cover for illegal equipment. In this case, the iPod casing was likely hollowed out and fitted with a skimming tool that included:
- A fake card reader to capture data from users’ magnetic stripes
- A miniature hidden camera, disguised as part of the ATM, to record PIN entries
The stolen data would then have been used to produce counterfeit cards and withdraw funds from affected accounts.
Following enquiries, three men—aged 43, 42, and 38—were arrested and charged in connection with ATM tampering in Kingswells, Portlethen, and Stonehaven. They were due to appear at Aberdeen Sheriff Court on Wednesday, 7 May 2025. Reports were submitted to the Procurator Fiscal.
