The Division of Financial Institutions is warning consumers to protect themselves from a new trend in identity theft: ATM skimmers. ATM skimmers are devices that thieves install on ATM machines to steal consumers' banking information. Skimming devices may be placed over or alongside card-reading devices on ATM machines. Thieves also may install a small camera on the machine to record users' pin numbers. The following tips may help you to protect yourself from ATM skimmers:
Beware of ATM machines with exposed wires, a loose scanner, multiple scanning devices, or a sticker that says "scan here first." If you spot any of these things, do not use the machine.
Do not use an ATM if someone offers to assist you with your transaction. Criminals may pose as another customer, a bank employee or a machine technician to make sure you use a skimming device.
Be secretive when entering your pin number. Cover the keys with one hand in case someone is looking over your shoulder or there is a hidden camera nearby.
Only use ATM machines that are familiar to you. This will help you recognize any tampering that has occurred with the machine.
Use ATM machines owned by your financial institution. These machines are often located in places where criminals cannot install their devices. Check the balance on your ATM card often so that if someone steals your information, you can minimize the damage. The faster you respond to ATM card theft, the sooner your financial institution may begin helping you recover any loss.
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