ATM Skimming Devices May Have Caused Fraud In Cedar Grove: Police Issue Warning

Cedar Grove, NJ – Cedar Grove police issued an alert on Thursday, warning local residents that four recent cases of credit card fraud – possibly involving ATM skimming devices and cameras – have been reported in the township.

Police Chief Richard Vanderstreet told Patch that officers aren’t sure of the exact locations where the victims’ credit card information was stolen.

“All of the victims reported using their cards at area merchants and area ATM’s,” Vanderstreet told Patch. “We are working on establishing probable locations. Since all victims are still in possession of their cards, we believe a skimming device and camera may be involved.”

All four cases were reported on Wednesday, Vanderstreet said.

Several locations provided by victims were checked for devices and so far none have been found, Vanderstreet added.

AVOIDING FRAUD

The CGPD released the following tips to avoid ATM fraud:

1. When using an ATM machine, be alert for suspicious devices
2. Check the ATM machine for parts that look crooked or are loose
3. Look for parts with mismatched colors
4. Look for parts partially covering machine instructions or other stickers
5. Since hidden cameras are often used in tandem with skimming devices to capture the victim’s PIN number, the user should conceal the ATM machine key pad with his/her free hand to prevent the camera from recording the number
6. Pay close attention to your bank statements or balance; Check often for any unauthorized activity
7. Contact bank or store personnel or the police if you suspect the ATM machine you are using has been tampered with

“If you think you have been a victim of an ATM involved credit card fraud, please contact the Cedar Grove Police Department if you are a resident, or your local police department for assistance,” police stated.

• See related article: Nutley Cops Find ATM Skimming Device At 7-Eleven, Issue Alert

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