There are small signs that, at first glance, seem harmless. A card that does not come out, a machine that fails, someone who offers to help. And even a discreet strap of glued ribbon in the grooves. Situations that, in isolation, do not raise suspicions. However, they have been increasingly associated with a technique that has emerged again with new contours.
According to the Lifestyle site, Leak, the so-called “Ribbon Trick” is back and more difficult to detect methods. The scheme is based on the placement of an almost invisible strap of cola tape or thin plastic in the crowd grooves, in order to attach the card at the end of the operation.
The customer thinks that this is a technical failure and, by moving away from the machine, leaves the card in possession of the burlon, which is nearby to observe.
What happens next
If the PIN code has been seen during operation, either by direct observation or through hidden chambers, access to the account may be immediate. In certain cases, the Burlon himself can encourage the victim to repeat the code, pretending to want to help, only to memorize the sequence more clearly.
The simplicity of the maneuver, coupled with the discretion of the material used, makes it difficult to realize that one is facing a scam.
According to the same source, the scheme has occurred mainly in large circulation areas, where the hasty pace and confidence in the functioning of machines play in favor of criminals.
How to act if the card arresters
The most important thing is not to abandon the machine. If the card is retained, you should immediately contact the bank and request the cancellation.
You should never accept help from strangers, even if they seem well-meaning. It is also essential to protect the keyboard by hand when introducing the code, a simple measure that makes access to PIN difficult.
If you check something strange in the groove, such as tape or any object that seems out of the normal, you should alert the authorities or the space responsible. Do not try to remove the material.
Have your bank’s support line contact always available and be aware of any suspicious movements in the account after such a situation. If you confirm a scam, file a complaint to the police and ask for access to video surveillance, if possible.
It underlines that this method remains effective precisely because it disguises it as a damage. The only way to counteract it is to maintain attention in details and act quickly before any anomaly.
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