ATM Card Skimming and PIN Capturing

What is ATM Card Skimming and PIN Capturing?

• ATM Card Skimming is a method used by criminals to capture data from the magnetic stripe on the back of an ATM card.
  
• The devices used are smaller than a deck of cards and are often fastened in close proximity to or over the top of an ATM’s factory-installed card reader.
• Pin Capturing refers to a method of strategically attaching cameras and various other imaging devices to ATMs in order to fraudulently capture the ATM user’s PIN.

Where to spot a card skimming or pin capturing device on an ATM?

What do skimming devices look like?

Top photo shows an unadulterated ATM fascia. The flashing lead through entry indicator is easily observed. Note: Most skim devices when fitted will obscure the flashing entry indicator this should be a vital clue as to any suspect tampering.
A skim device has been placed in or near the card reader slot. Although the device has been given the appearance of being a standard part of the terminal it is in fact an additional fitted piece & clearly is different from the above photo. Note: No flashing lead through light can be seen. The shape of the bezel is clearly different.

What can you do to mitigate the risk of a skimming attack?

• Get to know the appearance of your ATM.
• Inspect the front of the ATM for unusual or non standard appearance. Scratches, marks, adhesive or tape residues could be indicators of tampering. The inspection should be part of your morning external check and afternoon closing procedure.
• Familiarize yourself with the look and feel of your ATM fascia. Particularly pay attention to all of the touch and action points. (e.g. keypad, customer card entry slot, lighting diffusers).
• Inspect all areas of the fascia. Look at card reader entry slot & regions immediately above the consumer display and keyboard area for anything unusual.

By being vigilant you can play a part in reducing the risk of a skim attack!