Police have issued a warning to Christmas shoppers when using cashpoints after a woman was targeted by a thief in Ashton town centre after withdrawing money.
Police say a 'considerable amount of money' was taken from the woman by a thief using 'distraction' techniques.
And they believe gangs of thieves will be targeting shoppers in centres throughout Greater Manchester on the run up to Christmas.
A police spokesman said: "Please make sure that when using cash machines that you shield your PIN whilst inputting it and you are aware of your personal surroundings whilst withdrawing cash.
"Offenders have been known to try to distract people at the cash machine and steal that persons card and/or money, whilst they are distracted.
"Offenders have also been known to distract people in stores and shopping centres and to pickpocket that person.
"Only a few days ago, in Ashton town centre a lady had a considerable amount of money stolen from her by an offender using a distraction technique, shortly after she had drawn out the money from a local bank.
"The offender had taken efforts to disguise themselves, and was therefore not identified.
"Please be aware of your own personal security and to keep any purses, wallets and bags fastened and out of public reach, where possible."
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