The number of throws involving ATM cards has grown in Portugal, affecting thousands of users. Despite being a scheme known for several years, this threat continues to endanger the financial security of citizens.
According to the Judicial Police, the cloning of cards allows organized groups to access and illegally move funds in bank accounts of the counterfeit card holders, causing significant financial losses.
How does the cloning of Cards?
Criminals use devices designated by skimmers, installed at TMA terminals to copy the magnetic band of the cards. In addition, they place disguised microchanes to capture the PIN code while introduced by the user.
Police warn that this technique is not restricted to automatic boxes, and may also occur in commercial establishments through the manipulation of payment machines (TPA).
Operation “Ctrl €” dismantles criminal network
In an action in the regions of Greater Lisbon, Greater Porto, Minho and Algarve, the Judiciary Police detained ten suspects linked to a counterfeit and fraudulent use of multibanco cards, as well as capital bleaching.
The damage caused by this group exceeds 450 thousand euros, highlighting the severity of the crime.
How to avoid being a victim of cloning
Police recommends that users inspect terminals before use, checking for loose parts or foreign components. If they detect something suspicious, they must stop the operation and inform the bank or police.
It is essential to plug the keyboard by typing the PIN, preventing hidden cameras or nearby people from registering the numerical sequence. If the operation fails, the card should be immediately canceled and the bank informed.
During shopping at commercial establishments, do not miss the view to prevent cloning through the TPA machines.
Special attention to elderly users
These measures are even more important for older people, who usually take longer at the ATM terminals, increasing exposure to fraudulent devices.
Vision reduction and less familiarity with recent technologies make it difficult to detect changes in terminals, making this group more vulnerable.
Therefore, family members and caregivers should accompany the elderly whenever possible, ensuring that operations are done safely.
The importance of surveillance and collaboration
Staying aware of the state of the terminals and protecting the PIN code are effective ways to prevent cloning.
Reporting any irregularity to the bank or police contributes to disabling these traps and hindering the action of criminals.
It reinforces that cooperation between citizens, banking institutions and security forces is critical to making these frauds increasingly difficult to realize, ensuring greater security to all users.
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