In Portugal, the ATM is part of the daily routine. It serves to pay bills, raise money, make transfers and even charge the mobile phone. But there is a hidden risk: some machines may be tampered with by groups specializing in fraud. The detail that denounces the scheme is often ignored by users and can mean the difference between keeping the account safe or seeing the money disappear.
How the schemes work
According to the shared information Public Security Police (PSP) and digested by the site specializing in Lifestyle, Leak, the most used techniques go through the so -called skimming and physical changes in the Multibanco box. The goal is simple: copy card data and register the PIN codes.
Among the most common methods are false card readers, devices that are fitted to the grooves and copy magnetic information. There are also chambers disguised on folds or leaflet supports, positioned to capture the numbers introduced by the customer. In some cases, false keyboards are applied to the original, recording each movement of the fingers.
According to the same source, the largest warning signal is the appearance of the machine itself. If the card or keyboard groove looks different, loose or protruding, the box may be compromised. A plastic frame that moves to the touch or a higher keyboard than usual are clear evidence of tampering.
More sophisticated techniques
In recent years, criminals have appealed to less visible methods. Europol refers to the use of Deep Insert Skimming devices placed within the card slot, virtually invisible to the common look. In these cases, the only track may be the biggest difficulty in inserting the card.
It also explains the European authority that the Bluetooth -connected skimmers have been multiplied, capable of transmitting the data in real time to nearby accomplices. Another technique is the so -called overlay, where a complete structure is placed on the machine, creating the illusion of being the original multibanco.
Cases in Portugal
PSP and GNR have reported incidents in Lisbon, Porto and Algarve. In many cases the victims only realized the fraud days later, when checking suspicious movements in their accounts. These groups work quickly: they install the equipment for a few hours and remove them before they are detected.
How to prevent
To reduce the risk, the recommendation of the authorities is always to observe the machine before using. If the card entrance or keyboard looks strange, you should choose another crowd. It is also advisable to cover the keyboard when introducing the PIN code, slightly pull the card slot to check if it is firm and give preference to boxes installed in seats or moved locations.
According to Banco de Portugal information, activating SMS movement alerts is another effective way to detect unauthorized operations early on.
The financial impact
Europol’s latest report estimates that automatic box skimming moves hundreds of euros a year in Europe. In Portugal, official numbers are lower, but have been growing. In 2024, several cases were recorded in the south and north of the country, associated with international networks.
As with, a simple detail can therefore be the first track that a machine is not safe. If the groove is loose, the keyboard looks out of normal or the card comes in difficulty, it is a warning sign. The rule is repeated in police recommendations: If something does not seem right, you should not use this ATM box.
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