A number of McDonald’s franchises in Western Australia have fallen prey to a card skimming crisis, carried out through compromised EFTPOS point of sale devices.

The fast-food chain cannot reveal the number and locations of affected stores, for fear that it might hinder the police investigation.

However, according to Smartcompany, over 3,500 customers have lost $2.5 million after visiting various restaurants across the state.

As a precautionary measure, McDonald’s has removed and replaced all EFTPOS devices in the affected restaurants.

The franchise released a statement which reads The security and safety of McDonald’s customers is an ongoing priority for McDonald’s with the support of the WA police. All staff … are focused on increased security and vigilant adherence to existing security protocols.