Withdrawing money from an ATM has become a risky moment for many elderly people in recent months, after a series of robberies in which victims lost 200 euros shortly after entering the secret code. The pattern of crimes points to the lack of attention to the surrounding space at the critical moment of the operation.
The cases led to the arrest of a suspect and reinforced warnings from authorities and banking entities about basic security behaviors, in a context in which many users continue to repeat routines without additional precautions.
Arrest after GNR investigation
According to the newspaper Correio da Manhã, a 58-year-old man was placed in pre-trial detention after being brought before the Aveiro Criminal Instruction Court, on suspicion of robbing elderly people during ATM withdrawals.
According to the same source, the investigation by the Criminal Investigation Center of the GNR of Aveiro made it possible to associate the defendant with incidents recorded in Cacia, Aveiro, Vale de Cambra, Oliveira de Azeméis, São João da Madeira, Penafiel and Anadia.
The suspect waited for the victims to insert their card and PIN, then surprised them to withdraw 200 euros and quickly leave the place. The publication adds that the defendant is indicted for the crimes of theft, robbery and abuse, having been taken to the Aveiro Prison, where he began complying with the coercion measure.
Look around before entering the code
According to the Montepio bank website, based on recommendations from the Banco de Portugal Bank Customer Portal, security begins before entering the PIN, with observation of the space and the equipment itself.
The portal explains that the user must confirm that the ATM has a normal appearance, without damage or signs of manipulation, and always protect the keyboard when entering the code.
Pay extra attention to other payments
According to the same source, similar precautions must be taken in automatic payment terminals, ensuring that the card does not leave sight and that the value of the operation is confirmed before validation.
Montepio also states that, in contactless payments and online purchases, verifying amounts, using reinforced security solutions and protecting personal data are essential measures to reduce risks.
After the successive episodes of theft reported by the newspaper, a simple gesture is recommended before entering your ATM card code: stop, look around and only then enter your PIN.
Authorities and banking entities insist that attention when withdrawing is decisive, especially for the most vulnerable users, in a context in which distraction continues to be the main ally of those who commit this type of crime.
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