The Oak Ridge Police Department is warning people to be aware of a practice called “ATM skimming” after a device was found on an Oak Ridge bank.
The “skimming” scheme involves stealth surveillance equipment installed by thieves on ATM machines. The FBI says skimming can involve a realistic-looking card reader placed over the factory-installed card reader in order to steal customer account information, and a hidden camera or phony keypad to record PIN numbers. It’s like identity theft for debit cards.
The ORPD said an “ATM skimmer” was found in Oak Ridge at SunTrust Bank.
The FBI and ORPD advise those who use card readers to be aware of devices that look or feel suspicious.
“If the ATM card reader looks or feels suspicious in any way, please inform the owner of the ATM and ORPD immediately,” the Oak Ridge Police Department said.
The FBI says “ATM skimming” is a growing criminal activity that some experts believe costs U.S. banks hundreds of millions of dollars annually. The federal agency has tips on how to avoid being “skimmed.” They’re available in the graphic in this FBI story.
Among the tips, be suspicious if you see anything on an ATM, gas pump, or credit card reader that is loose, crooked, or damaged, or if you notice scratches or adhesive or tape residue. It’s best to use an indoors ATM because they’re harder for thieves to access, and when entering your PIN, block the keypad with your other hand to prevent possible hidden cameras from recording your number, the FBI says.
Here’s an FBI graphic on “ATM skimming”:
Image courtesy FBI
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