Strange contraptions known as “skimmers” are targeting ATM users, and the AGO wants you to be prepared. When attached to your ATM, the device can be used to steal your credit card information, capture your pin code, and send the information wirelessly via Bluetooth or cell phone text. Don’t let this happen to you!
Here are some ways to avoid being scammed:
This type of crime happens far more often than you’d think, and it can happen to you. If you see something that doesn’t look right – such as strange colored components or hardware that isn’t shaped correctly – you’re better off finding another ATM. You should also report what you’re seeing right away better safe than sorry, and you just might protect a fellow consumer. In general, ATMs located in the public eye are much harder to tamper with, so be mindful of which ATMs you choose. If your options are the ATM inside a busy supermarket or the ATM outside on the sidewalk with relatively little traffic, you may want to consider going inside.
Photo credit to: Krebsonsecurity