Authorities warn gym-goers to avoid using the same PIN for lockers and bank cards after a theft incident in London
London: So, there was this crazy incident at a gym in London. Police are really pushing people to use different PINs for their lockers and bank cards. Why? Because a thief managed to steal a bunch of money just by watching someone enter their locker code.
This guy, Declan Murphy, was sneaky. He watched a gym-goer type in their locker code and then stole their phone and bank card. Guess what? He figured the bank card’s PIN was the same as the locker code. He ended up taking £500 from the victim’s account.
To make things worse, he messed up the victim’s phone by soaking it in water, which made it tough for the guy to access his banking app. Murphy had been using fake names to get into fancy gyms like Third Space and Nuffield Health, and he was no stranger to this kind of crime.
He even took out £1,750 using stolen cards from another gym. The good news is that the banks eventually compensated the victims. But still, it’s a real wake-up call for everyone.
Murphy got two years and three months in jail for his actions. The judge said he was pretty much a pro at this kind of theft. Police are warning that this method is becoming more common, so they’re urging everyone to keep their locker and bank PINs different.
DCI Kevin Ives from the City of London police said people expect their stuff to be safe at the gym. But sadly, that’s not always the case. He stressed the importance of not using the same PIN for lockers and bank cards.
Murphy had targeted a luxury health club and even pretended to be the victim to access his bank accounts. The victim, who had just lost his wife, felt even lonelier after the theft. It’s just a sad situation all around.
Now, Murphy can’t go near any Third Space or Nuffield Health gyms for six years. Let’s hope this serves as a reminder for everyone to stay safe and secure their belongings.
