A sophisticated, high-tech skimming device has been found attached to an ATM in Adelaide’s central business district.

In the wake of the discovery South Australia police are urging people to be wary of fraudsters in the lead up to Christmas.

The device – which contains two components – appears similar to a skimming device which was recently found in Brisbane’s Queen Street Mall.

The device, on an ATM in James Place off Rundle Mall, was found by an alert customer who immediately notified the bank.

The device appears to have been purpose-built and is capable of being quickly placed over the actual ATM card reader.

Once in position the device is almost indistinguishable from the actual ATM.

It is equipped with memory cards which can store video footage and details of cards compromised.

An almost undetectable pinhole camera records customers entering their PIN while the device simultaneously records the card data.

It would appear the offenders have targeted a ‘high traffic’ area leading up to the busy Christmas period.

Police are in possession of the device and believe no cards were compromised at this machine.

Police would like to reinforce to the public the need to be careful and alert when using ATMs and to report any suspicious activities or if they have any concerns of the integrity of an ATM.

Despite their detailed design the devices rely on double-sided adhesive to remain attached to the machine and can come loose.

“Beware of anyone acting suspiciously around ATMs and report it,” Detective Inspector Greg Hutchins, the officer in charge of the Financial Investigation Sections, said.

“Always check the ATM for obvious signs of tampering. A customer can give the card entry point a bit of a wiggle to make sure it’s firmly and completely attached.

“We would also recommend customers shield their PIN with their hand – no matter where they are.”