Using an automatic transmission is such a common gesture that many consumers no longer even look closely at the machine. They insert the card, enter the PIN and carry out the operation in a few seconds. However, it is precisely this routine that can be used by criminals to clone ATM cards.
According to the specialized technology portal, ATM card cloning, known as skimming, continues to be one of the best-known forms of bank fraud. The scheme involves installing fake devices on the terminal, capable of copying card data and collecting the code entered by the user.
How the scheme works
In the most common method, criminals place a fake reader in the slot where the card is inserted. This device copies data from the card without the user realizing that anything is wrong.
At the same time, there may be a small camera hidden near the keypad to record the PIN. Alternatively, criminals can use a fake keyboard superimposed on the original, capable of recording the numbers pressed.
With this data, scammers can clone the card and try to use it elsewhere. Many victims only realize the problem days later, when checking their bank statements or receiving suspicious movement alerts.
What to check before using
Before inserting the card, there is a simple gesture that can make a difference. Try moving the card slot slightly and see if it is well fixed, aligned and has the same appearance as the rest of the machine.
You should also look at the keyboard. If it appears overlapping, has play, is misaligned or is different from usual, it is best not to use the automatic transmission. Small holes, strange parts near the screen or poorly fitted objects can also be warning signs.
This verification takes just a few seconds, but it can prevent your bank details from being stolen. If in doubt, the safest thing is to cancel the operation and look for another terminal.
Places where the risk may be greater
In Portugal, the network has protection mechanisms against this type of fraud, but the risk does not disappear completely. Pay greater attention to independent ATMs, poorly monitored locations, tourist areas or isolated gas stations.
Whenever possible, it is preferable to use ATMs installed inside or next to bank branches. These locations tend to have more surveillance and regular maintenance.
When traveling abroad, extra care must be taken. Protection systems vary from country to country and this type of fraud continues to be common in some tourist destinations.
Digital payments reduce exposure
One way to reduce your risk is to use mobile payments, such as Apple Pay or Google Pay, whenever possible. These systems use tokenization, which means that the actual card number is not transmitted in the transaction.
Even so, digital payments do not eliminate all risks. In online shopping, there is also so-called e-skimming, in which fake or compromised payment pages can collect bank details.
Therefore, in addition to checking ATMs, you should be careful with unknown stores, links sent in messages and pages that ask for card details outside of secure environments.
What to do if you suspect fraud
If you find something strange in an ATM, do not attempt to remove or tamper with the suspicious device. Move away, contact the bank or authorities and, if safe, record the situation remotely.
If you have already inserted the card and have doubts, block it immediately using the bank’s application or the helpline. Then, ask for a new card to be issued and monitor account movements.
It is also advisable to activate bank notifications on your cell phone. This way, any suspicious payment or withdrawal can be detected more quickly.
In the end, the rule is simple: before using an automatic transmission, look, touch carefully and confirm that everything seems normal. Ten seconds of attention can prevent a difficult fraud to solve.
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