How To Protect Your ATM Card From Scammers

A release from Stoneham safety officer Joseph Ponzo:

We use Automatic Teller Machines (ATM) almost daily in our fast paced lives. They are convenient, quick and easy to use for withdrawals or deposits. But with convenience comes problems and one of the problems that I have discovered is a scam commonly called “skimming”.

Skimming is the art of acquiring information from your ATM card fraudulently and usually without you even realizing it. Scam artists can quickly read your card’s information and use it to access your account fraudulently. With a small device, your card’s information gets stored so fast criminals can easily get to it later.

Skimmers may be installed on ATM machines and sometimes you can’t even notice them. A small device goes over the normal card reading slot and reads your card’s magnetic strip. Skimmers can also be handheld devices that a dishonest merchant can keep in his pocket. While charging your card while you are out at dinner, for example, a scammer can run your card through a skimmer as well. To avoid being a victim of this type of fraud, I have researched some helpful preventative tips.

Always use a secure ATM machine which is under video surveillance or inside of the bank lobby. These types of ATM’s are less likely to be tampered with. Thieves have to take more risk installing skimmers where there are security cameras. Cover the ATM keypad when you are entering in your PIN number in order to prevent someone from looking over your shoulder. Skimming devices will most likely stick out a few extra inches from an ATM. If something looks suspicious, find another ATM. Never fall for a poor fitting device or any type of sticker or sign that says “Swipe Here First” or “Use This Machine Only”.

If a machine keeps your card, call the bank immediately and report it. Never accept help from anybody hanging around the ATM machine. They may say they are having trouble also and you just need to enter your PIN again. Keep your eyes on your card at all times. Don’t let a merchant walk off with your card even for a few seconds.

With these tips in mind, hopefully we can prevent any future problems at the ATM machine.

Remember Safety First!