Alert to Consumers: New ATM Scam Being Reported; Criminals Attaching Wireless Cameras to the Fronts of ATMs

Business Wire, July 22, 2005

SACRAMENTO, Calif. -- The California Bankers Association is warning consumers of a new ATM scam involving the use of wireless cameras and is also providing consumers with friendly reminders about ATM security.

In this new scam, criminals are affixing a wireless camera to the front of an ATM machine, often trying to disguise it as part of the card-scanning equipment found at every ATM. This camera records all of the information entered to access the card and is transmitted to a recording device, usually held by criminals in close physical proximity, in some cases as close as a nearby parking lot. Consumers who find anything unusual affixed to the front of the ATM, specifically anything unusual affixed to the card scanning area should find another ATM to use and should notify the owner of the ATM or law enforcement immediately.

"While there are very few reported instances of this scam," said CBA's president and CEO Janet Lamkin, "it's so important to alert consumers when we first hear about these new scams -- to ensure that they don't become widespread and to ensure that consumers and their hard-earned money remain safe."

CBA encourages consumers to remember the following security tips when using ATMs:

--Be aware of your surrounding, particularly at night. Make sure the ATM is free of sight obstructions (like trees or bushes). If you feel at all uneasy about using an ATM machine, for whatever reason, do not use the machine.

--Have your ATM card ready and in your hand as you approach the machine.

--Use your body to "shield" the keyboard/pad as you enter your PIN.

--Always take your receipts from your transactions with you.

--Do not count or visually display the money you received at the ATM. Put it into your pocket or wallet immediately.

--If you are using a drive-thru ATM, make sure all passenger windows are rolled up and that all doors are locked.

Information about CBA

Established more than 110 years ago, the California Bankers Association (CBA) is one of the largest state banking trade associations in the country. CBA leads the way in developing relevant educational and legislative solutions to some of California's more pressing financial and banking issues, including adult financial empowerment, identity theft, financial privacy, and financial elder abuse. CBA's membership includes more than 300 of California's commercial, industrial and community banks and savings associations.