TO LEARN ABOUT FRAUD PROTECTION CLICK THE IMAGE BELOW

ATM SKIMMING ALERT

ATM skimming is becoming a popular means of stealing secured information.  Many skimmers are turning up locally at ATM terminals and gas pumps.  Skimming devices are installed on legitimate bank ATMs and gas pumps and are used to steal information from ATM and Debit cards.   

Tips to Avoid Falling Victim to a Skimmer:

• Use secure ATM machines under video surveillance or inside of a bank lobby. They’re less likely to be tampered with.  Thieves have to take more risk installing skimmers where there are security cameras.

• Cover the ATM keypad as you're entering your PIN just in case there’s a hidden camera around.

• Skimming devices will stick out a few extra inches from an ATM.  If something looks suspicious, find another ATM.  Don't fall for a poor fitting device or a 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.

• Don't accept "help" from anybody hanging around the ATM machine.  They may say they were having trouble also and you just need to enter your PIN again.

• Keep your eyes on your card if you have any doubts.  Don't let a merchant walk off with your card, even for a few seconds.

The skimming equipment is used to steal both the ATM or Debit card magnetic strip information and the PIN.  The thieves can either retrieve the captured data wirelessly or return at a later date to retrieve the device with the captured data.  The PIN is compromised by disguising pinpoint cameras in normal equipment or replacing keypads.  There are also handheld skimmers that merchants or restaurant wait-staff can use to capture information.  Most skimmers do not interfere with the normal transaction so funds are received and the transaction appears to be normal.  Once data from a skimmed card is captured, the information is used to produce counterfeit cards that are used to make unauthorized withdrawals from the victims account.    

Examples of Skimming Devices: