ATM Skimmer Fraud

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WHAT ARE THE SIGNS THAT THIS IS A SCAM?

You attempt to use an ATM, but one of the following occurs:

The ATM has exposed wires, a loose scanner, multiple scanning devices or a sticker that says 'Scan here first'; and/or

Someone else, perhaps another 'customer', a 'bank employee', or a 'machine technician', offers to help with your transaction.


HOW CAN CONSUMERS PROTECT THEMSELVES?

Do not use an ATM if you spot any exposed wires or other apparent machine defects.

Protect your ATM card and pin number from strangers. Cover the keys with one hand in case someone is looking over your shoulder or there is a hidden camera nearby.

Use only ATM machines that are familiar to you, and only those owned by your financial institution. This will help you recognize and avoid any tampering.

Always monitor your bank statements and ATM balance, and be on guard for irregular transactions that may indicate theft.


 HOW TO REPORT IF YOU’VE BEEN A VICTIM

Federal Trade Commission (FTC): If you think you've been the victim of identity theft, file an ID Theft Complaint online (www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov).

Local Police Department: You should also immediately contact your local police department to file an Identity Theft Report, as well as provide a copy of your ID Theft Complaint. This detailed Identity Theft Report entitles you to certain legal rights with credit card companies and credit reporting agencies, and may help you recoup some of your losses. Click here to obtain the contact information for your local police department.

Place a fraud alert on your credit reports and review your credit reports carefully. The alert tells creditors to follow certain procedures before they open new accounts in your name or make changes to your existing accounts. The three nationwide consumer reporting companies have toll-free numbers for placing an initial 90-day fraud alert; a call to one company is sufficient:

Equifax 1-800-525-6285
Experian 1-888-Experian (397-3742)
TransUnion 1-800-680-7289

Placing a fraud alert entitles you to free copies of your credit reports. Look for inquiries from companies you haven't contacted, accounts you did not open, and debts on your accounts that you can't explain.

Close accounts that have been tampered with or established fraudulently.

Call the security or fraud departments of each company where an account was opened or changed without your approval. Follow-up in writing, with copies of supporting documents, including your identity theft report.
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For more information on identity theft, visit these Web sites:

Federal Trade Commission – Identity theft

U.S. Department of Justice – Identity theft and Identity Fraud

Identity Theft Resource Center - www.idtheftcenter.org