STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. — The NYPD is continuing its campaign to protect the public from a scam they may never have heard of: ATM skimming.
This week, officer from the 121st Precinct were visiting borough ATMs to talk to bank customers about how to protect their money, as well as how to detect skimming.
The precinct tweeted about their efforts, with a series of tips.
What is ATM skimming?
Skimming is an illegal activity that involves the installation of a device that secretly records bank account data when a customer inserts an ATM card in the machine.
Criminals can then gather the stolen data onto a blank card and use it to withdraw money from the individual’s bank account.
The 121st Precinct’s tweet warns customers and employees of three important rules:
– Be aware of your surroundings
– Protect your pin
– Inspect the machine before use
More helpful tips to keep in mind before using an ATM machine include:
- Be wary of hidden cameras, usually concealed and used in conjunction with the device in order to record customers typing in their pin numbers into the keypad. Cameras are usually concealed in the front of the ATM machine.
- The skimmer looks similar to the original card reader. However, the original reader is usually concave in shape (curving inward) while the skimmer is usually more convex (curving outward).
- Police remind residents to inspect ATMs, gas pumps or credit card readers before using them. When entering your PIN, always block the keypad with your other hand.
