Fraudsters taking advantage of loadshedding at ATMs

ATMs are a favourite target for criminals simply due to their increased usage and accessibility to customers, day and night. The unprecedented load shedding around the country has also exacerbated the problem, and fraudsters take advantage of dimly-lit areas to prey on vulnerable people. They can be the perfect hunting ground for criminals, and these perpetrators usually work in teams. Older people are particularly susceptible, as are foreigners unfamiliar with our banking system. “ATM hints and tips are much like the safety instructions one receives on a plane. After a while, one tends to zone out and not pay attention. But just like these instructions could save your life in a crash, the same can be said for ATM tips. It’s natural to become lazy about routine things, but ATM awareness should not be one,” says Charnel Hattingh, the head of group marketing and communications at Fidelity Services Group.
There are numerous different scams fraudsters use, like card swopping and ATM skimming, but here are the eight most basic golden rules one needs to follow to stay safe:
• Never draw money from an ATM in a dimly-lit area or where there are nearby loiterers – you have to be alert to your surroundings and leave if you notice anyone loitering suspiciously. “It is much better to choose familiar and well-lit ATMs where you are visible and safe,” says Hattingh.
• Have your card ready in your hand before you approach the ATM to avoid opening your purse, bag or wallet while in the queue, and remember always to be cautious of strangers offering to help. They could be trying to distract you to get your card or PIN. This is particularly relevant for older people.
• Follow the instructions on the ATM screen carefully and only punch in your PIN once prompted by the ATM.
.• If your card does not go in smoothly, do not force it in. Rather leave the ATM and remember to report suspicious items or people around ATMs to the bank. Toll-free numbers are displayed on all ATMs or the back of your card.
• If your card is swallowed, do not leave the ATM before you have cancelled your card.
• Memorise your PIN. Never have it written down or share it with anyone, and always key in your PIN yourself and in such a way that no one else can see.
• Never let anyone stand close to you while using the ATM.
• After successfully transacting at the ATM, leave immediately. Some fraudsters wait until you’ve drawn your cash to take advantage. Be cautious of strangers requesting you to return to the ATM to finalise/close the transaction because they are unable to transact. Skimming may occur during this request. Your card may have been skimmed. “Finally, remember you are now carrying cash and could become a target once your guard is down.
Unfortunately, with many people under financial pressure and unemployment numbers still so high, opportunistic crime remains a real threat,” concludes Hattingh.