Ananova:

A cautious German who avoided cashpoint machines for years because of fears of identity fraud finally used one - and was arrested.

Hans Mauer, 40, spent so long checking the ATM that other users called police and he was arrested - for suspected identity fraud.

Mauer, 40, had inspected the cash machine for hidden CCTV cameras, fingerprint powder on the keyboard, and signs of tampering with the screen.

The final straw came when he snapped on a pair of surgical gloves so he wouldn't leave fingerprints as he entered his pin number at the cashpoint in Muenster, Germany.

"He explained he had never used a cash machine in his life for fear of thieves and while his behaviour did appear very suspicious we soon had the matter cleared up," said a police spokesman.

"It is unlikely he will ever use a cash machine again though."