There is an everyday gesture that many people do without thinking twice, and which, in certain ATMs, can turn into a perfect opportunity for more sophisticated fraudsters. Withdrawing money from an ATM installed on public roads, especially in poorly monitored locations, can increase the risk of card fraud: the “skimming” technique uses disguised devices to copy data and capture the PIN, and the Judicial Police has already confirmed cases in Portugal with cards compromised in ATMs and significant losses.
The concern is not theoretical. According to Executive Digest, and in Portugal, the PJ described investigations in which cards issued by national banks were compromised in ATMs in various parts of the country, with unauthorized debits recorded and high losses, after anomalous behavior on the network was detected.
Despite the network having security mechanisms and authorities dismantling organized networks, experts cited by the same source point out that fraudsters adapt methods and exploit user attention gaps, especially on more exposed terminals with less surveillance.
What is “skimming” and how does it work
Skimming is, in practice, cloning: criminals install fake or manipulated parts in the ATM to read data from the magnetic strip and, in parallel, use micro cameras or other tricks to capture the PIN entered by the customer.
The PJ describes this method clearly: data can be compromised using covertly installed “skimmers” and micro cameras that film the keyboard, then allowing unauthorized movements.
According to the same source, as a rule, fraudsters use false slots and reading devices to copy data, and recording the PIN is often the step that “closes” the scheme and allows you to withdraw money or make fraudulent purchases.
Why are ATMs on the street a prime target
Boxes “loose” on the street, without permanent surveillance or without connection to an agency, tend to be easier to manipulate without anyone noticing, and small changes can go unnoticed for hours or days.
Isolated locations, with little circulation and where no one finds it surprising that someone is “messing around” with the terminal, are more attractive for this type of quick intervention, especially at the end of the day and during busier periods (such as festive seasons).
And the risk is not limited to withdrawing money: the PJ warns that skimming can also occur at payment terminals (TPA) in establishments, so the principle is the same, card always kept an eye on.
Three simple gestures that reduce risk
The first is immediate: always cover the keyboard when entering the PIN. It is an express recommendation from the PJ and appears repeated in card fraud prevention guidelines.
The second is to “look twice” before using: if you notice anything abnormal, loose parts (keyboard, screen, card slot), signs of manipulation or an appearance different from usual, do not use that machine and look for another.
The third is to choose the location better: whenever possible, prefer ATMs inside branches or in spaces with greater surveillance, and be wary of “help” from strangers during the operation, it is a common form of pressure and distraction.
If you have already been a victim: what to do in the first few hours
According to , if you suspect that something has gone wrong (card “stuck”, strange operation, abnormal behavior of the terminal), cancel the transaction and report it immediately to your bank, blocking the card as quickly as possible.
Then, confirm account movements frequently and keep records (time, location, receipt, machine messages). DECO explains that card fraud can even occur at a tampered ATM and that you must report the incident as soon as possible to minimize losses and speed up the response.
The rule of thumb is simple: an ATM on the street continues to be useful, but requires extra attention, and, in these schemes, your vigilance is often the first barrier.
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