Withdrawing money from an ATM, pay close attention to this to avoid losing all the money in your account.
The Bank Card Association reports that recently, some member banks have been targeted by criminals who vandalize ATM machines to steal money or use complex new methods to install skimming devices to steal card transaction data at ATMs to create fake cards and withdraw money…
The tactics used by the criminals often involve gluing or taping the camera to prevent it from recording images and then vandalizing the machine’s body or using a tool to melt the cash dispenser or the ATM’s cash vault, aiming to damage the machine and steal the money inside.
Customers withdrawing money at ATMs should also observe the card reader area, keypad, key protection device (if any), the casing around the ATM screen, and the ATM camera, as criminals may attach or install strange devices, which are unusually connected to the ATM. In some cases, criminals may install small drill bits to set up devices or mini cameras.
If any suspicious activity is detected, customers should stop withdrawing money and report it to the bank’s branch or transaction office.
Member banks need to increase vigilance against ATM vandalism/ATM skimming to steal money and respond promptly to the groups of criminals. The main target of these criminals is ATMs located in remote areas, with few passersby at night, and no 24/7 security.
Banks should proactively use multi-channel communication to inform their customers about safety measures when conducting transactions at ATMs to raise awareness about proactive risk management.
The Card Association – Banking Association recommends that member banks enhance measures to prevent ATM skimming through:
(i) Hardware solutions – collaborating with equipment suppliers and maintenance partners to install anti-skimming devices at high-risk locations, prioritizing areas identified in regular risk management meetings.
(ii) Solutions to limit/block fallback transactions based on criteria such as time frame, risk tolerance, transaction channels, etc., to reduce losses from ATM skimming while ensuring effective service to customers.
