Skimming is a method of obtaining personal data from ATM, debit, or credit cards while they are used at an ATM machine or a merchant location.
People can alter equipment on legitimate ATMs in an effort to steal both the magnetic stripe data from the cards being used and the PINs that are assigned to those cards.
More recent technology allows the culprit to remain nearby receiving the information wirelessly from equipment they installed on the ATM. The thieves can then copy the cards and use the PIN numbers to withdraw money from many accounts in a very short time directly from an ATM.
Please note: The following examples refer to ATMs, but similar devices may also be placed on card readers at gas station pumps.
Equipment is installed on the front of the original ATM card slot. The false slot holds an additional card reader called a “skimmer.” The skimmer captures and copies the card information.
Then a camera that reads the card PIN is housed in an innocent looking pamphlet holder. The camera inside pamphlet holder is angled to view monitor and keypad.
What can you do to protect yourself?
Be vigilant and inspect the ATM before using it. Skimming devices that are placed on or near the ATM’s actual card reader are often difficult to detect, but if anything about the card reader or PIN pad looks different, unusual or seems loose to the touch, don’t use it. If possible, report this to Seattle Credit Union or the owner of the ATM as soon as possible.
