How Fraudsters Use ATM Card Skimming and Trapping?
3 July, 2024
Synopsis
Card trapping is a fraud technique where a device is inserted into an ATM to capture and retain a user's bank card.
Card skimming is a fraud technique where criminals use ATM skimmers to steal card information and PIN numbers during legitimate transactions.
Being aware of your surroundings can help you avoid ATM card scams.
ATM card trapping and skimming are two prevalent scams that fraudsters use to steal money and sensitive information from unsuspecting individuals. Card trapping involves devices that capture and retain bank cards within ATMs. Whereas skimming uses hidden devices to steal card details and PINs during transactions. Both methods pose significant threats to financial security, making it crucial to understand these scams and learn how to avoid ATM scams.
What is ATM Card Trapping?
ATM card trapping is a fraudulent tactic where criminals insert a device into an ATM's card slot to capture and retain a user's bank card.
How Fraudsters Use ATM Card Trapping
Here is how an ATM card trapping scam is executed:
The cardholder inserts their card into the ATM machine as usual.
A trapping device within the ATM prevents the card from being ejected after insertion and traps it inside the machine.
Believing it to be a technical malfunction, the unsuspecting victim may assume that the ATM has encountered an error and leave the machine without their card.
Taking advantage of the victim's absence, the fraudster later retrieves the trapped card from the ATM for unauthorised use or cloning.
What is ATM Card Skimming?
Card skimming is a type of fraud where criminals use card skimming devices to steal card information during transactions.
How Fraudsters Use ATM Card Skimming
Fraudsters utilise ATM card skimming devices to extract card details from the victim. Here is how:
Scammers attach card skimming devices to ATMs in a discreet manner to avoid detection.
These devices capture the data stored on the Credit or Debit Card when it is inserted for a transaction.
In addition to skimming devices, tiny cameras or fake keypads may be installed to record the cardholder's PIN as they enter it.
Once the card data and PIN are captured, fraudsters have the necessary information to create cloned cards to conduct unauthorised transactions using the victim's account details.
How to Avoid ATM Scams
Here is how you can recognise key red flags to avoid ATM scams:
Look for Loose or Misaligned Components: If the card reader, keypad or any other part of the ATM appears loose or tampered with, it could indicate the presence of a trapping device.
Inspect Visible Damage: Check for any signs of damage, scratches or glue residue around the card slot. It could indicate that an ATM card skimmer or trapping device has been installed.
Do Not Ignore Unexpected Card Retention: If the ATM retains your card without completing the transaction or displaying an error message, it is a clear indication that something is amiss. Do not leave the ATM and report the incident to your bank immediately.
Monitor Your Surroundings: Be wary of anyone standing near the ATM or exhibiting suspicious behaviour. For instance, watching or approaching users closely. They could be attempting to gather information or distract you while your card is being trapped.
Report Suspicious Activity: If you believe an ATM has been tampered with, immediately stop using the ATM and report it to the bank authorities right away.
Stay Vigilant to Protect Yourself from ATM Frauds
Protecting yourself from ATM card trapping and other forms of fraud requires vigilance and proactive measures. Staying informed and cautious is key to safeguarding your financial security during ATM transactions.
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*Disclaimer: Terms and conditions apply. The information provided in this article is generic in nature and for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for specific advice in your own circumstances.
