RESIDENTS are being warned to remain vigilant after fraudsters targeted a series of cash machines at Co-op stores.

The latest reported incidents happened to people who withdrew cash from the machine outside the East of England Co-op's store in Nayland Road, Mile End, Colchester.

Funds were then cleared from their bank accounts.

It is understood a skimmer had been attached to the card slot which can copy the information on the card's magnetic strip when inserted into it.

Other incidents have occurred at Colchester branches in Old Heath Road, Iceni Way in Shrub End and in Wivenhoe all within the last fortnight.

Martin Goss, Colchester councillor for Mile End, said he was aware of two victims of the scam at Nayland Road since Tuesday.

He added: "The Co-op was made aware on Wednesday, and the police, so the right authorities have been involved."

Mr Goss strongly urged residents who had concerns to check their bank statements online every day.

"If there is anything suspicious they should report it immediately to their bank who will investigate and refund accordingly."

A spokesperson for the East of England Co-op said: “We are aware of a few reports of issues with ATMs at some of our Colchester stores.

"We have raised these issues with Cashzone, the company that operates the machines. We don’t have access to the machines and all repairs and maintenance is handled by Cashzone.

"Cashzone will be visiting these machines as soon as possible to repair them and investigating the cause of the problem.”