The proliferation of fraudulent tactics such as ‘skimming’, which involves duplicating credit cards at ATMs, has drawn the attention of authorities.
Criminal Actions and Police Response
Recently, three individuals were arrested for cloning cards and stealing personal data using electronic devices called ‘skimmers’. This operation resulted in the misappropriation of nearly 200,000 euros.
In a parallel incident, in Barcelona, two women and a man were arrested on suspicion of defrauding elderly people at ATMs. Their tactic was to provide simulated aid, obtaining the victims’ PIN numbers and snatching the cards with trickery.
The Vulnerability of Bank Cards
Bank cards store confidential data that is exploited through the method known as ‘skimming’. Through this approach, cybercriminals manage to duplicate cards and carry out fraudulent transactions without the knowledge of the cardholder.
The ‘Skimming’ Technique and its Application in ATMs
Skimming is executed by perpetrators using devices called skimmers, designed to extract information without arousing suspicion. These devices are frequently used in ATMs to obtain card data.
Safeguarding Your Finances: Safety Tips
Below, we present a series of guidelines to follow to protect yourself from these crimes and ensure secure transactions with credit or debit cards.
Keep Your Card in Sight
Do not allow your card to stray from your line of sight during transactions.
Discretion with the Keys
Be cautious with your PIN number: don’t share it and hide the keypad while entering the key at the ATM.
Inspect the Devices
Before making a transaction, make sure there are no strange or suspicious devices in the cashier.
Choose Secure Locations
Avoid poorly lit or isolated areas when using ATMs.
Monitoring and Review
Turn on notifications for your account and periodically review statements for unauthorized activity.
Guidelines for the Responsible Use of ATMs
Financial security specialists suggest following these tips to use ATMs with caution and avoid falling into scams or loss of sensitive data.
Privacy in Typing
When typing your password, be sure to cover the keyboard to avoid prying eyes.
Thorough inspection
Before proceeding, check for unusual or suspicious items at the ATM.
Prevention against Strangers
Be cautious when interacting with strangers at the ATM and don’t let them distract you.
Prudent Transactions
Avoid withdrawing large sums of cash from ATMs.
By implementing these precautions, you will be better prepared to meet the security challenges associated with using ATMs and protecting your financial assets.
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