ATM Skimmer Suspect Photos Released By Police

MILLERSVILLE, MD — Anne Arundel County Police have released photos of a man who detectives believe has placed skimming devices on ATMs in the area. The electronic devices are able to capture a credit or debit card’s electronic data while the built-in camera in the units captures the user putting in their PIN.

Not sure what a card-skimming device looks like? This website shows various skimmers on ATMs, so you know what to look for in the future.

Police didn't release a list of businesses where they found the skimmers, but in November authorities found skimmers on a Suntrust Bank ATM inside the Safeway at 7463 Arundel Mills Blvd. in Hanover.

As a Patch reader shared, be wary of ATMs at stores, because they might not be checked regularly for skimmers. Also, it’s not a bad idea to use cash at gas stations and other spots where thieves might have an opportunity to attach skimming devices.

Banking websites and police have tips to help foil skimmers.

How to Protect Your ATM Card

• Use secure ATM machines under video surveillance or inside a bank lobby. They’re less likely to be tampered with.
• Pay careful attention to what the card reader and keypad normally look like on the ATMs you use most frequently.
• Don’t use an ATM if the card reader appears to be added on, fits poorly, or is loose. Some thieves place a fake box over the card slot that reads and records account and PIN numbers.
• Inspect the machine for items that were installed over or around the PIN pad of the ATM. Look for an attachment on the ATM that contains a small hole that is pointed in the direction of the PIN pad.
• Lightly tug the area of the card slot. Most skimming devices are attached with double-sided tape for quick removal by the crooks.
• Cover the keypad with your other hand while typing your PIN. This is the best way to ensure that your PIN number is not recorded.

Anyone with information on the identity of the suspect is asked to contact Detective Eric Love at 410-222-3832.

»ATM skimmer suspect photos courtesy of Anne Arundel County Police