Going to the ATM is a banal routine for millions of Portuguese. Inserting the card, typing the pin and raising money seems simple. But in recent months, warnings have been multiplied about a new blow that catches even the most attentive. Called a “arrested card” or “Lebanese Loop” by Leak, this scheme can get the victim’s physical card and secret code, allowing the burns to raise money immediately.
According to the Leak technology website, this trick has been worrying the authorities because it does not depend on sophisticated cloning or abroad operations, as was the case with skimming. Here, the criminals act at the moment, enjoying an almost imperceptible detail.
HOW THE STATE OF THE CARD CARD WORKS
The method begins with the placement of a small piece of plastic or metal in the machine grooves. This object is so discreet that most people do not notice. The result is simple: the card is stuck.
The nervous victim tends to repeat the PIN several times in an attempt to recover the card. It is at this moment that usually someone who appears to want to help. Explains Leak that this “good Samaritan” may suggest combinations to free the card or even share similar experiences while observing the movements and decorates the code.
When the victim gives up and walks away, the burns remove the piece, get the card and already know the pin.
Because it’s not skimming
Unlike traditional skimming, where magnetic data is copied to then create copies of cards used abroad, this scheme gives immediate access to the original card and secret code. This allows you to raise money at the moment, without raising suspicions.
According to the same source, this is one of the reasons why the coup has made so many victims: the speed with which criminals can use the card before being canceled.
The new variation: the note trick
In recent times yet another version has emerged. Instead of arresting the card, the burns leave a Euro grade attached to the machine outlet. Many users, when they see “forgotten” money, try to pull it. In the meantime, they are distracted and exposed.
Writes Leak that this technique has been used to discreetly observe PIN or even directly address the victim with false help offers.
How to protect
Authorities advise you never to introduce the PIN if the card is stuck. The bank should be called immediately to the bank’s emergency number, present on the back of the card, and never accept help from strangers.
Another caution is to observe the machine grooves before starting any operation. If the card entrance seems loose, misaligned or with suspicious appearance, it is best to look for another ATM.
Protect the keyboard by hand whenever introducing PIN is another basic recommendation as it avoids reading the code by third parties.
A simple but effective blow
The so -called “arrested card” does not require advanced technology, but it is precisely this simplicity that makes it effective. Burlons don’t want to copy data: they want to keep the original card and the memorized pin.
Just a moment of distraction for the victim to lose access to the account and balance. Being alert and distrusing situations unusual is the best way to avoid falling into this scheme.
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