How you can avoid falling prey to these scammers

When using an ATM, it is important to exercise caution at all times. By being extra vigilant, ATM users can avoid falling  victim to these crimes.

Lee-Anne van Zyl, CEO of FNB Points of Presence, says: “Consistently arming consumers with information is one of several strategies we use to fight ATM fraud. If customers know what to do, they are less likely to fall prey to scammers”.

Tips for protecting your ATM PIN

Keep your ATM PIN confidential; if it lands in the wrong hands, you risk being scammed. Never write down your PIN and do not share it with anybody.

The PIN must never be easy to guess; avoid using your date of birth as your PIN number.

When transacting, cover the key pad with your hand - scammers can place cameras to record your PIN as you enter it.

Stand as close as possible to the ATM and never let anyone stand close to you whilst you are transacting.

Do not enter your PIN on a screen that is unfamiliar to you. Carefully read the instruction on the ATM screen before entering your PIN.

Tips for protecting your cash

Once cash has been withdrawn, immediately place this out of sight.

Secure your wallet or handbag before leaving the ATM.

Set a realistic daily limit to protect yourself, should your details be compromised.

Check your statements and balances regularly and immediately report any suspicious transactions to the bank.

Be wary of strangers who may call you back to the ATM to complete a transaction. They often ask for assistance or offer to assist you - this is how scamming occurs.

Remember to:

Never ask for help from strangers, even the security guard – if you are unsure, visit a nearby branch for assistance.

Never force your card into the ATM – if the card is not easily accepted by the device, it may have been tampered with by criminals.

Never use an ATM if it looks faulty – this may mean the device has been tampered with. Discontinue the transaction and seek another device.

Never respond to strangers who disturb you during a transaction, even if they seem respectable and well spoken.

Pay attention to your surroundings and be alert -  look out for loiterers.

Always be vigilant to your surroundings as syndicates usually operate with two or more people, so while the one person is distracting you, the other is obtaining your pin while you’re entering it.

Tips provided by First National Bank.

Date:09 July 2016

By: Isabel Venter

Isabel joined the Zoutpansberger and Limpopo Mirror in 2009 as a reporter. She holds a BA Degree in Communication Sciences from the University of South Africa. Her beat is mainly crime and court reporting.

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