Fraudsters are getting more and more creative and utilizing advanced technology to install skimmers on ATMs. To help protect you, we’ve put together a list of five best practices:
1.) Examine the ATM Before Using It
Before you begin using the ATM, be sure to give the machine a once over to look for any signs of tampering. Things to look out for are loose equipment, unusual attachments to or inside the card reader and any abnormalities with the keypad. If anything looks or feels off with the machine, this should raise a caution flag.
2.) Look for Hidden Cameras
Hidden cameras are often used in conjunction with a skimmer so that fraudsters can record you entering your PIN on the keypad. Look for unusual scratches, holes, compartments or small objects attached to the machine. Even if you don’t see any out of place cameras, be sure to cover your hand when entering your PIN number on the key pad. This is your best defense against fraudsters using skimmer technology.
3.) Utilize ATMs in Secure Spots
ATMs inside bank lobbies or in well lit, high traffic public spaces a generally more secure and less likely to be targeted than stand-alone machines in isolated and dark places.
4.) Use Tap-to-Pay Technology
Contactless devices like digital wallets, tap-to-pay enabled cards also reduce your risks as they eliminate the need for you to insert your card into a potentially compromised machine.
5.) Review Your Statements Regularly
Reading your account statements frequently and monitoring your transaction history through online banking is critical to detecting and stopping any fraudulent account activity early on. If you catch any unusual transactions or withdrawals, please report it immediately to OlyFed. Taking prompt action can minimize any potential losses.
Contact OlyFed
If you believe an ATM may be compromised by a skimmer, please contact OlyFed immediately. By alerting us, we can quickly respond and contact the authorities promptly, while taking the necessary actions to prevent and/or limit any potential losses.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us at (360) 754-3400 or customerservice@olyfed.com.
