<p>ATM skimming is a type of credit card <a href="https://www.fraudswatch.com/category/fraud/amp/" data-type="URL" data-id="https://www.fraudswatch.com/category/fraud/">fraud</a> in which criminals install a device on an ATM that captures the cardholder&#8217;s <a href="https://www.fraudswatch.com/tag/identity-theft/amp/" data-type="URL" data-id="https://www.fraudswatch.com/tag/identity-theft/">personal information</a>, including their name, account number, and PIN. This information can then be used to create counterfeit cards or to make unauthorized withdrawals from the victim&#8217;s account.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">What is ATM Skimming?</h2>



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<p>ATM skimming is a crime in which criminals attach a device to an ATM that captures the cardholder&#8217;s personal information, including their name, account number, and PIN. This information can then be used to create counterfeit cards or to make unauthorized withdrawals from the victim&#8217;s account.</p>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Types of ATM Skimming</h2>



<p>There are two main types of ATM skimming:</p>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading"><strong>Hardware skimmers</strong></h3>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><img src="https://www.fraudswatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Hardware-skimmers.jpg" alt="" class="wp-image-92826" title="Hardware skimmers"/></figure>



<p> These are physical devices that are attached to the ATM&#8217;s card reader or PIN pad. They typically look like the real card reader or PIN pad, but they have a hidden camera or card reader that captures the victim&#8217;s information. Examples of Hardware Skimmers:</p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>Shimmers:</strong> ;These are thin devices that are inserted into the ATM&#8217;s card reader. They capture the data on the victim&#8217;s card chip, which is then used to create counterfeit cards.</li>



<li><strong>Overlays:</strong> ;These are transparent devices that are placed over the ATM&#8217;s keypad. They capture the victim&#8217;s PIN as they enter it.</li>



<li><strong>Miniature cameras:</strong> ;These are small cameras that are hidden in the ATM or near it. They can be used to record the victim&#8217;s PIN as they enter it or their card number as they swipe it.</li>



<li><strong>Remote skimmers:</strong> ;These are devices that are connected to the ATM&#8217;s computer system via a wireless network. They can capture the victim&#8217;s information without the need for physical access to the ATM.</li>
</ul>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>Biometric skimming:</strong> ;This is a new technique in which criminals use a hidden camera to capture the victim&#8217;s fingerprints or facial features. This data can then be used to create counterfeit cards that can be used to withdraw cash or make purchases.</li>



<li><strong>ATM malware:</strong> ;This is a type of malware that is installed on the ATM&#8217;s computer system. It can capture the victim&#8217;s information when they swipe their card or enter their PIN.</li>



<li><strong>ATM jackpotting:</strong> ;This is a technique in which criminals use a device to trick the ATM into dispensing more cash than the victim has requested.</li>



<li><strong>ATM gashing:</strong> This is a technique in which criminals use a sharp object to damage the ATM&#8217;s card reader. This can make it difficult or impossible for the victim to insert their card, and it can also damage the card itself.</li>
</ul>



<h3 class="wp-block-heading">Software Skimmers</h3>



<p> </p>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><img src="https://www.fraudswatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/Software-Skimmers-1024x683.webp" alt="" class="wp-image-92829" title="Software Skimmers"/></figure>



<p>These are malware programs that are installed on the ATM&#8217;s computer system. They can capture the victim&#8217;s information when they swipe their card or enter their PIN. Examples of Software Skimmers:</p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>Keyloggers:</strong> ;These programs record everything that is typed on the ATM&#8217;s keyboard, including the victim&#8217;s PIN.</li>



<li><strong>Trojans:</strong> ;These programs are disguised as legitimate programs, but they actually contain malicious code that can steal the victim&#8217;s information.</li>



<li><strong>Rootkits:</strong> ;These programs give the criminals complete control over the ATM&#8217;s computer system, allowing them to install other malware or steal data.</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Tips to Avoid ATM Skimming</h2>



<p>There are a few things you can do to avoid ATM skimming:</p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>Inspect the ATM before using it.</strong> Look for any signs of tampering, such as loose or damaged parts, or a card reader or PIN pad that looks different from the others.</li>



<li><strong>Cover your hand when entering your PIN.</strong> This will help to prevent a hidden camera from capturing your PIN.</li>



<li><strong>Use a credit card instead of a debit card.</strong> Credit cards offer more fraud protection than debit cards.</li>



<li><strong>Be aware of your surroundings.</strong> If you see someone acting suspiciously near an ATM, report it to the bank or the police.</li>
</ul>



<h2 class="wp-block-heading">Reporting ATM Skimming</h2>



<p>If you think that your card has been skimmed, there are a few things you can do:</p>



<ul class="wp-block-list">
<li><strong>Contact your bank immediately.</strong> They will cancel your card and issue you a new one.</li>



<li><strong>File a police report.</strong> This will help to track down the criminals and bring them to justice.</li>



<li><strong>Check your account statements carefully.</strong> Look for any unauthorized transactions. If you see any, contact your bank immediately.</li>
</ul>



<p><strong>Conclusion</strong></p>



<p>ATM skimming is a serious crime, but it can be prevented by being aware of the signs and taking precautions. By following these tips, you can help to protect yourself from becoming a victim of ATM skimming.</p>