How It Works
Fraudsters fit a hidden skimming device on ATMs or card swipe machines that copies your card's magnetic stripe data, often paired with a tiny camera to record your PIN. The cloned card is then used to withdraw cash or make purchases.
Real Example
You withdraw cash from an ATM at night. A small device fitted over the card slot copies your card data, and a pinhole camera records your PIN. Days later, unknown withdrawals appear from a different city.
Red Flags 🚩
- ATM card slot feels loose or has an extra attachment
- Unusual device or sticker near the keypad
- Someone standing too close while you enter your PIN
- Unfamiliar transactions from cities you haven't visited
Protection Steps 🛡️
- Cover the keypad with your hand while entering your PIN.
- Check the card slot for tampering before inserting your card.
- Prefer ATMs inside bank branches with security guards.
- Enable SMS/app transaction alerts and report suspicious charges immediately.