DISTRACTION is the main tool used by thieves to pull an ATM user from victim’s account from their bank card.
On Saturday, 11 March a woman fell victim to this modus operandi when three men distracted her while she was waiting for the ATM machine to return her card on South Coast Road.Before she knew it, her card and the men were gone. “She went inside the bank in an attempt to stop the card but was unable since it was her father’s card,” said Montclair SAPS communication officer, Capt Dereck Vijiam.
By the time the woman made contact with her father, about R7,800 had already been withdrawn from the account.
According to the Banking Association of South Africa, the large number and increased usage of ATMs has made it possible for criminals to devise various scams such as card skimming, card swopping, ATM shoulder surfing and card trapping in ATMs.
Tips to avoid becoming a victim of ATM fraud:
- Use ATMs where you feel the most comfortable and safe.
- Be vigilant and avoid using an ATM where suspicious-looking individuals are loitering.
Have your card ready in your hand before you approach the ATM. - Do not use the ATM if it appears to have been tampered with or damaged.
- Do not accept help from strangers at an ATM, especially when you experience difficulty with the transaction, and do not allow anyone to distract you.
Shield the ATM keypad with your hand to prevent people seeing when you enter your PIN. - Never disclose your PIN to anybody, not even to the bank or police.
- Press the cancel key, withdraw your card and proceed to an alternative ATM if you feel the ATM is not functioning correctly.
- Use the help line and/or nearest phone to contact your bank and/or police if your card gets jammed, retained or lost, or if someone interferes with you at an ATM.
- Take your time when transacting and ensure your cash and card are carefully secured in your wallet, handbag or pocket before leaving the ATM.
Do you have more information pertaining to this story?
Feel free to let us know by commenting on our facebook page or you can contact our newsroom on 031 903 2341 and speak to a journalist.
DID YOU KNOW?
Click on the words highlighted in red to read more on this and related topics.
To receive news links via WhatsApp, send an invite to 061 876 3179
The Southlands Sun is also on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest – why not join us there?
(Comments posted on this issue may be used for publication in the Sun)
