Picture: Facebook
Another card -cloning device was found at an Absa ATM in the Riverside Mall this weekend. It was the second such reported incident in January.
The device copies client details that are stored on the magnetic strip of debit or credit cards.
The information is then used to manufacture counterfeit cards which criminals use to make transactions on a victim’s account. According to The Banking Association of South Africa, the majority of skimming incidents in South Africa are recorded at ATMs.
Upon further inspection a very small camera was also found mounted on the machine. It allegedly took photos while users punched in their PINs. However, there are ways to avoid bank cards from being cloned.
The Banking Association of South Africa provided the following safety tips on card cloning:
ATM safety tips
• Never give your card to someone at an ATM for any reason
• Never let anyone assist you at an ATM, even if they appear to be a bank official or security personnel
• Beware of people standing close to you when you are concluding your transactions at an ATM
• Take care when keying in your PIN
• Never use an ATM that looks tampered with or damaged
• Always use an ATM in a well-lit area. If possible, use one that is monitored by a CCTV camera.
Shopping safety tips
• Ensure your card never leaves your sight. Most restaurants and shops have portable card machines so there should be no reason for your card to leave your presence. If the person needs to use a different machine, always accompany that person.
• Ensure that your card is not switched for another after paying
• If you have any suspicions, use cash instead of your card
• Monitor your bank statements for any unusual transactions
• Banks also advise customers never to give their cards to people at ATMs for assistance.
