ATM Card Skimming & PIN Capturing

ATM Card Skimming

A method used by criminals to capture data from the magnetic stripe on the back of an ATM card.

Skimming is a form of magnetic stripe counterfeiting in which criminals are able to copy magnetic stripe track information (including Card Verification Value - CVV) from a valid card. Information may then be encoded on a counterfeit card and used fraudulently.

Skimmer

Devices used are smaller than a deck of cards and are often fastened in close proximity to, or over the top of the ATM’s factory-installed card reader and these devices.

• A skimming device is often being ‘piggy-backed’ onto the card reader slot
• A smaller skimmer that looks just like a normal card entry slot that may be attached to the ATM rain cover.

Check these areas for any suspicious skimmer devices in ATM:

• Card Reader Entry Slot
• ATM Keyboard Area
• Speaker area
• Light diffuser area
• ATM side fascia

PIN Capturing

A method of strategically attaching or positioning cameras or other imaging devices to ATMs for fraudulently capture PIN numbers. Once captured, the electronic data is put onto a fraudulent card and the captured PIN is used to withdraw money from accounts. PIN capturing devices are normally fitted to the top of the ATM and these devices are usually difficult detect. Check these areas for any suspicious PIN capturing devices in ATM:

• Take a closer look at the brochure holder –a pin-hole Camera has been installed. This is done to capture images of the keypad and customers entering their PIN.
• A skimmer plate can be placed over the top of the existing keyboard as a method of PIN capturing.

How can you reduce the risk?

• Familiarize yourself with the look & feel of the ATM fascia on machines.
• Inspect the ATM & all areas of its fascia for unusual or non-standard appearance
• Inspect whether there is anything unusual (card reader & area above the screen)
• Report any unusual appearance immediately to Police or the nearest bank branch.
• Always use your hand to shield your PIN when entering it.