CHICAGO, IL- September 13, 2011 – Card skimming is becoming a
common problem. Before getting
money out at the ATM or filling up your gas tank, the Better Business Bureau
serving Chicago and northern Illinois (BBB) advises consumers to take a minute
to inspect the machine before swiping a credit or debit card.
According to the ATM Industry Association, card skimming is
defined as the unauthorized capture of magnetic stripe information by modifying
the hardware or software of a payment device, or through the use of a separate
card reader. Once a consumer swipes their card through the fake card reader,
their account information is sent to the scammer, leaving the consumer
vulnerable to theft. In addition, thieves may use hidden cameras attached near
a machine to record the consumer’s hand movements to obtain their personal
identification number.
“Identity theft can
happen to you whether you’re shopping online or at the mall, making it critical
that we all take specific steps to fight both low and hi-tech id thieves,” said
Steve J. Bernas, president and CEO of the Better Business Bureau Serving
Chicago and northern Illinois.
To help reduce ATM
skimming, The BBB offers the following tips:
·
Inspect the ATM – Avoid using ATMs in poorly lit or low trafficked
areas. Experts often recommend choosing a bank ATM over standalone ATMs in
public places. Look for new or suspiciously placed cameras and unusual signage.
Don’t hesitate to walk away and use another ATM if something appears out of the
ordinary.
·
Protect your PIN – When entering your PIN, cover the keypad with
your other hand to protect your private information from any cameras in the
vicinity. Periodically change your PIN.
·
Monitor your statements – Even the most careful person
can fall victim to skimmers. Keep a close eye out for suspicious charges on the
itemized breakdown of your accounts. Through your financial institution, you
can also sign up for alerts that will notify you when certain types of
transaction occur.
·
Report fraud immediately – Report any fraudulent activity
to your bank as soon as you discover it. Consumer protections for debit and
credit cards vary but depend largely on when the fraudulent activity is
reported.
·
Consider using an RFID sleeve- Many credit/debit cards
and driver's licenses contain RFID chips with personal data. By using this
sleeve, you can keep your personal data secure by preventing unauthorized
access.
For
more information on how to avoid scams, visit www.bbb.org
###
As a private,
non-profit organization, the purpose of the Better Business Bureau is to
promote an ethical marketplace. BBBs help resolve buyer/seller complaints by
means of conciliation, mediation and arbitration. BBBs also review advertising
claims, online business practices and charitable organizations. BBBs develop
and issue reviews on businesses and nonprofit organizations and encourage
people to check out a company or charity before making a purchase or donation.
