How to Avoid Getting Skimmed
Consumers are reporting a new kind of pickpocketing: skimming. Criminals swipe card information through credit card readers at retailers and ATMs and use it make purchases or withdraw money from bank accounts. Here are ways to avoid becoming a victim.
When you use an ATM, first check to make sure it looks normal. If there is a sign directing you to use a different card slot from usual or the slot looks tampered with, don't use the ATM.
Avoid strangers who offer to help you with the ATM.
Check your bank account statements regularly, to make sure there are no unauthorized charges.
If an ATM "eats" your card, don't keep punching in your PIN—notify your bank immediately.
Don't let anyone watch you type in your PIN. In addition to collecting the data, criminals sometimes record PINs so they can use the copycat cards to withdraw money from ATMs.