ATM Fraud Exposed; Protection and how its Done

ATM cardholders should always be aware of their security when using an ATM machine and should always follow these general tips to ensure their personal information is kept safe although the methods are diverse but from this you should have an idea of how to protect yourself from any type of ATM fraud.


READ ON !!!!


I have took time to investigate to know how these fraud are practically done cause with your card in your hands money can still be removed from the card, to learn more about the methods leave a comment and your E-mail address and you will get a mail, This are strictly for educational purposes.


General security tips for ATM users:

* Never disclose your personal identification number (PIN) to anyone and Memorize your PIN. Don't write it down or keep it in your wallet or purse .


* Never use an ATM with a blank screen/ if the ATM is obscured from view or poorly lit, leave immediately and find another ATM. Don't use an ATM machine located in a dark or obscure location.


* Do not force your card into the card slot.

* Stand close to the ATM and use your body and hand as a shield to make sure nobody sees you keying in your PIN/ Protect your PIN !!!. Cover the keypad while you enter the number.. ALWAYS Watch out for shoulder surfers with binoculars or cameras.


* Follow the instructions on the ATM screen carefully/ Report anything suspicious or strange moves to your bank or financial institution..

* Do not insert your card until asked to do so by the display screen.




* Avoid drawing cash late at night or when you are alone/Use ATMs under video surveillance or those located inside a bank lobby/Be alert and conscious of your surroundings when using the ATM.

* Leave the ATM immediately if you don't feel safe or you are suspicious of individuals loitering around. Come back later or use another ATM.

* Never hurry when using an ATM. Make sure you are not distracted, intimidated or rushed into your transaction/ Be suspicious of signs telling you to use a specific machine. The ATM may be fitted with a skimming device..

* Never accept help from strangers when using an ATM/ The elderly, or physically challenged persons should take along with them trusted persons to assist them.. Always be wary of strangers asking for help. While one distracts you the other steals your card and money/ Don't accept offers of "help." Leave immediately.



* Do not count your cash in front of the ATM.

* Avoid using ATMs in secluded areas after dark/Conduct ATM transactions during the day. Most ATM crime happens at night.

* If the ATM retains your card, cancel it immediately.

* Never allow a bystander to call the toll-free number on your behalf - they could be tricking you into thinking your card has been stopped.

* Always check that it is your card you get back from the ATM.

* Be aware of the daily withdrawal limits on each of your cards and decrease them if necessary.

* If your card is retained (swallowed) by the ATM it is advisable to contact your bank immediately
* Sign up for SMS alert, so that you are alerted whenever any withdrawal is made in your account, Might not prevent a fraud.

The purpose of this circular is to impart basic crime prevention techniques to reduce Automated Teller Machine (ATM) crime. The primary focus of the ATM Crime Prevention Program is user safety. Surveys have shown the reported crime rate at ATM's has changed little over the last decade and that this is a crime of low probability. A person using an ATM is more likely to be the victim of a street robbery or involved in a traffic collision than the victim of an ATM crime. In fact, ATM crime incidents are on a downward trend due to heightened user awareness and prevention applications. However, low probability odds and statistics are a moot point to those who suffer the trauma of ATM crime.

The media informs the public about important issues and events. Sometimes a negative side effect is produced when too much attention is focused on criminal events. Oftentimes, the public's perception is that crime is occurring at epidemic levels, with fear rising dramatically out of proportion to the reality of becoming a victim. The following crime prevention tips can help make the use of ATM’s safer for everyone.

Because of the variety of ATMs, the unique characteristics of each installation, and crime considerations at each location, no single formula can guarantee the security of ATM customers. Therefore, it is necessary for ATM customers to consider the environment around each ATM and various procedures for remaining safe when using an ATM.

Perform mental exercises and think out what you would do in different crime or personal security situations. Follow your instincts. If you feel you are in danger, respond immediately. Remember that your personal safety is the first priority.


Criminals select their victims and targets, focusing on the unaware or unprepared. Criminals are also drawn to environmental conditions that enhance the opportunity to successfully complete their crime. The attitude and demeanor you convey can have a tremendous effect on potential assailants. There are a number of things you can do to increase your personal security and reduce your risk of becoming an ATM crime victim. Walk purposefully and with confidence. Give the appearance that you are totally aware of your surroundings. Be aware of your total environment and what is going on around you. Criminals tend to avoid people who have this type of demeanor.

ATM Selection Considerations

The law sets minimum standards for ATM lighting, procedures for evaluating the safety of ATM's and requires notices to ATM users outlining basic safety precautions for using ATM's.

Although ATM environmental design issues are covered in the law, there are other considerations that an ATM customer needs to consider prior to selecting and using an ATM.

For example:

* Do not select an ATM at the corner of a building. Corners create a blind area in close proximity to the customer's transaction. Select an ATM located near the center of a building. An ATM further from the corner reduces the element of surprise by an assailant and increases effective reaction time by the user;
* Identify an ATM with maximum natural surveillance and visibility from the surrounding area. This will create a perceived notion of detection by a criminal and increases the potential for witnesses;
* Select an ATM at a location void of barriers blocking the line of sight of the ATM. This includes shrubbery, landscaping, signs and decorative partitions or dividers. Barriers provide hiding areas for would-be assailants;
* Select an ATM that is in a well-lighted location;
* Whenever possible, select an ATM that is monitored or patrolled by a security officer;
* Select an ATM with a wide-angle transaction camera and/or a continuous transaction surveillance camera. Consult the bank or location management for this information;
* Solicit prior criminal activity statistics from law enforcement for the ATM site and surrounding neighborhood; and
* Avoid ATM locations with large perimeter parking lots and numerous ingress and egress points.

Considerations prior to and during transactions

* Maintain a small supply of deposit envelopes at home, in your car or office. Prepare all transaction paperwork prior to your arrival at the ATM site. This will minimize the amount of time spent at the ATM;
* Maintain an awareness of your surroundings throughout the entire transaction. Do not become so involved with your transaction that you are not aware of changing conditions around you;
* Do not wear expensive jewelry or take other valuables to the ATM. This is an added incentive to an assailant;
* Be aware of anyone sitting in a parked car in close proximity to or at a distance from the ATM location;
* When leaving an ATM location make sure you are not being followed. If you are being followed, drive immediately to a police, sheriff or fire station, crowded area, well-lighted location or open business. Flash your lights and sound your horn to bring attention to your situation; and
* If you are involved in a confrontation and the attacker is armed with a weapon and demands your money or valuables, COMPLY.

Fraud Considerations

* Memorize your Personal Identification Number (PIN). Do not write it down or keep it in your wallet or purse. Do not tell anyone else your PIN;
* Shield the ATM keypad from anyone who may be standing or parked nearby or anyone crowding you in an attempt to view your transaction. This may be an attempt to determine your PIN or they may be waiting for you to throw your transaction receipt away;
* Make sure you retain your transaction receipt. Do not throw the receipt away at the ATM site; and
* Immediately report any stolen or lost ATM card to the proper entities.

Conclusion

To reiterate, the foremost consideration is ATM user security. If confronted by an assailant, give up what they demand. Do not resist, property may be recovered later or replaced.

Do not be lulled into a false sense of security. Employing crime prevention techniques does not exempt you from crime. However, employing these techniques will significantly reduce your chance of becoming a crime statistic. Technology is not a guarantee of ATM user security. It is unlikely there will ever be any security device to prevent ATM related crimes of violence, but security products such as security lighting and wide-angle-transaction cameras, aid in the identification and apprehension of perpetrators. Most ATM's are properly placed and lighted.

The concern of ATM users should focus on the walkways, access and parking areas that provide areas of concealment for assailants. ATM crimes are predicated on opportunity and will continue as long as the criminals continue to invade our society. Do not provide any opportunity that increases your risk of becoming a victim. Alter your habits and offer yourself as an undesirable target.