Five Tips for Avoiding ATM Skimming

Posted: January 2, 2020

Inspect ATMs

Pull on the card reader first to see if it is loose.
The card reader should not look like it has had any “repairs”.
- Look for new scratches, glue marks, flashing lights, or visible wires.
Check the keypad for loose, discolored, or spongy keys.
Look for signs of an out of place box that could be a small wireless camera.
- Possibly above or to the side of the screen or touchpad.
- It could be metal, plastic, or even look like it is holding brochures.
Using the same ATMs on a regular basis will make it easier to notice changes.
If the ATM looks suspicious, notify staff immediately.
If there is more than one ATM, compare them with each other to look for differences.
The same idea applies to gas pumps – compare them with each other.

In a credit union or bank lobby located near the teller line.
At a gas station near the cashier.
An ATM visible from the drive-up at a financial institution.
The same idea applies to gas pumps – use those in a high traffic, monitored area.

Shield the pin pad as you enter your PIN number.
- From hidden cameras or nearby onlookers.
Change your PIN on a regular basis especially after traveling to foreign countries.
Avoid using numbers like your birthday, anniversary, spouse or child’s birthday, etc.

A possible innocent bystander waiting in line just as you finish your transaction.
Someone willing to help when your card just happens to get jammed.

Monitor your account on a frequent basis.
Contact your financial institution immediately if your account has suspicious activity.
Set up text alerts with your financial to monitor your account.
Remember that regulations favor the card holder and if the fraud is reported in 60 days it will be covered by your financial institution.