ATM fraud using fake dispenser doors targeted multiple Guelph banks
Guelph police say a series of thefts involving so‑called "cash trap" devices targeted automated teller machines across the city in late June, with at least one person arrested and charged as a result of the investigation.
Police say the scheme involved a device that mimicked an ATM's cash dispenser door and was affixed with double‑sided tape. When customers completed a withdrawal the dispensed bills became lodged between the real dispenser and the fake door, appearing as if the machine had malfunctioned. Suspects then returned later to remove the trap and retrieve the trapped cash.
How police uncovered the scheme
The series of incidents prompted an ATM technician to contact Guelph police after responding to multiple reports of machines failing to dispense cash. That technician discovered the bogus dispenser attachments, which investigators describe as part of a "sophisticated scheme".
"These devices exactly mimic the cash dispenser doors and were applied with double‑sided tape, causing withdrawn cash to be trapped between the dispenser and the fake door," police said in a release.
Investigators worked with colleagues in other police services who were probing similar incidents, police said.
Arrest, charges and known losses
Guelph police say a 52‑year‑old man of no fixed address was arrested in another jurisdiction and returned to Guelph. He faces multiple counts related to the alleged scheme.
| Charge | Number |
|---|---|
| Theft under $5,000 | 9 |
| Mischief under $5,000 | 7 |
The incidents involved devices temporarily installed on ATMs at at least six banks across Guelph. Police say they have identified known losses totalling a minimum of $4,400.
What this means for Guelph residents and bank customers
- Customers who think their withdrawal did not dispense should check their account balance and contact their bank immediately.
- Be wary if an ATM appears to be malfunctioning — do not leave the machine or discard transaction receipts until you confirm with your bank.
- Report suspicious attachments, loose panels or recent tampering to bank staff or police rather than attempting to remove devices yourself.
The accused is scheduled to appear in court on Sept. 21. Police continue to investigate and are asking anyone who believes they may have lost money as a result of the scheme to come forward so incidents can be linked and assessed.
The arrests and findings in Guelph mirror similar reports from other jurisdictions, underscoring how fraudsters have adapted relatively simple physical techniques to exploit routine banking transactions. For residents outside the downtown core and across Guelph’s suburban neighbourhoods, the case is a reminder that criminal activity tied to everyday services can occur anywhere.
Authorities have not released further identifying details about the accused. Banks and ATM operators typically inspect machines after reports of malfunction and, where tampering is suspected, work with police to preserve evidence and warn customers.
As the investigation continues, police said they are collaborating with other services to identify any additional incidents and suspects connected to the use of cash traps.
