How ATM skimming works

Offenders install skimming devices on two parts of the ATM:

• over the card insert slot, to record data from the card's magnetic strip; and
   
• at the top of the ATM a false panel with a pin-hole camera (often a mobile phone), to record the person entering their PIN number. 

The stolen information is later encoded onto blank EFTPOS cards and can be used at ATMs to withdraw funds using the customer's PIN.
 
Offenders have also been known to hold onto stolen account information for several months before accessing skimmed accounts elsewhere in the world.

POINT of SALE eftpos SKIMMING FRAUD

Since 5 October 2009 the Major Fraud Squad has received substantial information regarding alleged credit/debit card skimming and pin capturing occurring throughout the metropolitan area at McDonalds food-outlets. The operation has been established to investigate these offences. 

Inquires have confirmed that the EFTPOS POINT OF SALE devices have been compromised and customs debit/credit pin number and card information is being obtained at this point. 

Police are continuing to work closely with numerous financial institutions and McDonalds, with McDonalds being the only EFTPOS point of sale devices affected at this time.
To-date; 

• In excess of 3500 customers cards have been reported compromised
• In excess of 2.5 million dollars has been stolen. 

Information supports that thousands of customer's cards are at risk. 

Retailers are requested to report to police any recent suspicious activity and in particular occurrences where EFTPOS Point of Sale devices have been stolen or tampered with. 

Members of the public are advised to; 

• To protect their card – regularly change their PIN NUMBER
   
• Check credit/debit card statements to ensure withdrawals are legitimate.
   
• Should they detect any questionable transactions they are to immediately report these to their bank/financial institution to verify the transactions.
   
• Endeavour at all times to protect their personal credit/debit card details.
   
• Report to police any information concerning the tampering with or theft of EFTPOS machines.

What you can do to help prevent being robbed

• Shield your hands when entering your PIN.
   
• Familiarise yourself with local ATMs and check for abnormalities such as extra plastic panels, pinholes for a camera, loose fitting components and scratches, adhesive or tape holding components on.
   
• If you see someone acting suspiciously near an ATM or find what you believe is a skimming device, call police on 131 444.
   
• Check your bank statements/account balances regularly.
   
• If your card has been skimmed and money illegally withdrawn from your account, report it to your bank and to your local police.
   
• If you have information regarding the installation of skimming devices or the persons involved, call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. 

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