What is Skimming?
Skimming is a technique thieves use to steal debit or credit card data like the card holder’s name, card number, and expiration date, and in some cases, they even steal the PIN. Fraudsters then use this information to counterfeit cards with the same information as the original cards.
How Skimming Works
Skimming can happen anywhere a card is used offline or online, mostly at gas stations and ATMs and fake websites online. Fraudsters can use different techniques to capture card data. Simple methods like photocopying or taking photos of a card can be effective. However, they have developed more sophisticated devices; one such device is skimmers, which is becoming increasingly prevalent and difficult to detect.
Skimmers are small, tactful devices fraudsters mostly attach to ATMs, gas pumps, or other point-of-sale terminals. They capture card information from the magnetic stripe and may also include a hidden camera or overlay keypad to record PINs.
After fraudsters have the card details, they can use it to carry out unauthorized transactions or cash withdrawals. This can result in major financial losses and cause considerable inconvenience for the victim.
How to Protect Yourself from Skimming
You can save yourself from getting skimmed if you are vigilant at the time of using your cards offline and online. Here are a few tips you can consider to be safe from data-stealing:
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Before inserting your card, carefully examine the ATM for any signs of tampering, such as loose panels, unusual stickers, or foreign objects.
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Always cover the keypad with your hand while entering your PIN to prevent cameras from capturing it.
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If an ATM feels unusual or looks out of place, choose a different one.
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Pay attention to the card reader and ensure it's attached to the counter and not a separate device.
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Avoid using cashback features at gas pumps or other locations where you might be distracted.
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Review your receipts carefully for any discrepancies or unusual charges.
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Regularly check your bank and credit card statements so you can know if any unrecognized transactions are there.
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EMV cards, with their chip technology, are more secure than traditional magnetic stripe cards.
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Be wary of phishing scams and dodge this situation by avoiding clicking on suspicious links or downloading attachments from anonymous sources.
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If you suspect that your card has been skimmed, immediately contact your bank and get your card blocked and replaced.