Brakpan police have urged residents to be extra vigilant when withdrawing money, following a spike in thefts at ATMs.
According to Col Peet van der Schyff from the local SAPS, people making withdrawals at ATMs in Brakpan Central and Brenthurst have most recently been targeted, but incidents have been reported in other suburbs of Brakpan.
He told the Herald the perpetrators are well dressed.
“They hang around the ATMs and distract people who withdraw money and get their PINs and money in devious ways,” he said.
“We are urging people to be careful and on the lookout.”
The following tips will help keep you safe when using an ATM:
• Be alert and conscious of your surroundings.
• Never give your card or PIN to anyone, for any reason.
• Don’t write your PIN on the card or anything that is kept with the card.
• Do not insert your card until asked to do so by the display screen.
• Never use an ATM with a blank screen and, if the ATM is obscured from view or poorly lit, leave immediately and find another machine.
• Stand close to the ATM and use your body and hand as a shield to make sure nobody sees you keying in your PIN.
• Keep your hand over the card slot to make sure nobody can swap or take your card.
• Never accept help from strangers when using an ATM. You should be wary of strangers asking for help.
• Criminals work in teams – one to distract you while the other steals your card or money.
• If your card is retained (swallowed) by the ATM, it is advisable to phone your bank immediately and stop your card.
• Never allow a bystander to call the bank on your behalf. They could be tricking you into thinking your card has been stopped.
• Guards are placed at ATMs to discourage criminal activities and cannot help you with transactions.
• If you need help, ask a bank official.
• It is advisable to set a daily ATM withdrawal limit at your branch.
• If you suspect you are being followed from the bank, drive to the nearest police station.
Suspicious-looking people, vehicles and activities must be reported to the police immediately.
For emergencies or to report a crime, call 10111 or the Brakpan Police Station on 011 744 7100.
