ATM Scams

How to avoid ATM fraud and scams.

We are committed to safeguarding your privacy and security at all times. You can also help protect yourself by being aware of these four common ATM scams and taking steps to avoid them.

Scam #1: Card skimming

Skimmers are devices illegally added to ATM machines to capture account numbers, account balances and PIN numbers. You may find a card skimmer mounted over the normal ATM card slot or beside it with a sign that reads “Slide card here first” or a similar message.

Scam #2: The loop

This scam involves a blocking device that is inserted into the card slot of an ATM machine. When your card appears to become stuck, a common reaction is to go into the bank to report the problem. That’s when the thieves jump into action by removing the blocking device and withdrawing money from your account.

In another variation, a “Good Samaritan” suggests that you enter your PIN number a couple of times or offers to hold the cancel button while you enter your PIN. Rather than helping, they’re actually memorizing your PIN number.

Scam #3: Shoulder surfing

Another way to glean your ATM PIN number is for thieves to mount a wireless video camera inside the ATM area designed to capture video of you entering your number into the keypad. Once the scammers have your number, magnetic strips are easy to make and thieves are able to reproduce ATM cards.

Scam #4: Cash trapping

In this scam your cash is trapped by a sleeve or device slipped inside the cash dispenser that blocks your cash from coming out of the machine. The thieves hope you will walk or drive away, assuming the machine is out of order, or go inside the bank and report the incident.

Five simple tips to protect yourself from ATM scams.

1. Become familiar with the ATM machines you use regularly and be able to recognize changes to the machine and its surroundings. Be wary of any device that looks temporarily added or affixed to the machine. 
2. Never rely on the help of a stranger to retrieve a confiscated card or help you with a card that isn’t working properly.
3. Never use an ATM machine when other people are lingering or seem suspicious.
4. Always report confiscated cards immediately.
5. Avoid ATM machines with extra signage or warnings posted on the machine.