The idea of looking for ATM skimmers before you insert your card isn't new. But checking for tampering on a point-of-sale device can be difficult, and until recently, it wasn’t necessary since those devices were usually operated by human employees. Now that more retailers are ditching human cashiers for self-checkout options, there are more chances for thieves to attach credit card skimmers to payment machines and ATMs and steal your money.
For more about the motives and technology behind these kinds of crimes, check out our deep dive into the world of credit card shimming and skimming. To protect yourself from these kinds of attacks on your bank account, read our tips below and keep them in mind whenever you use an unattended payment machine.
How to Spot a Skimmer or Shimmer
People may be waiting in line behind you, but take the time to examine an ATM or other payment machine before you insert your card. You might be able to spot the work of a card skimmer before they make you their latest victim.
1. Is the Machine Damaged?
Check for obvious signs of tampering on the ATM. Examine the speakers, the screen, the card reader, and the keyboard. If something looks different, such as different colors or materials, graphics that aren't aligned correctly, or anything else, don't use that ATM. Additional signs of tampering are holes on the machine’s surface, holographic tape over seams, or bubbles of glue on the machine.
2. Does the Machine Look Different From Nearby Machines?
If you're at a bank, glance at the ATMs nearby and compare them. The photo below shows a credit card skimmer attached to an ATM. The yellow part attached to the card reader slot is the skimming device.
To give another example, if one ATM has a flashing card entry to show where you should insert the ATM card and the other ATM has a plain slot, you know something is wrong. If there are any obvious differences, don't use either one. Instead, report your suspicions to your bank.
3. Does the Machine's Keyboard Feel Weird?
If the keyboard feels a little too thick or it’s slightly off-center, try a different machine. The ATM with an odd keyboard may have been fitted with a PIN-snatching overlay.
4. Are There Any Loose Parts on the Machine?
Payment machines are solidly constructed and generally don't have any loose parts. Pull at protruding parts like the card reader. Make sure the keyboard is securely attached and just one piece. If anything moves when you push at it, don’t use that ATM.
4 Ways to Be Safer With Every ATM
Even if the ATM or payment machine seems otherwise fine, you may still become a skimming victim. Below are additional tips for staying safe while paying in public.
1. Protect Your PIN
Your PIN is the key to your financial castle. Without your PIN, criminals may be limited in what they can do with your card number. Cover your hand as you enter your PIN. It’s a good idea to always assume that someone is watching when you enter your PIN in a public area, whether via a hidden camera or over your shoulder.
2. Use an Indoor ATM
Criminals usually avoid installing skimmers on ATMs in busy locations since they don't want to be observed installing malicious hardware or collecting the harvested data (although there are always exceptions). Indoor ATMs are generally safer to use than outdoor ones since attackers can access outdoor machines unseen.
3. Avoid Using Your Card's Magstripe
Most payment terminals prompt you to insert your chip instead of swiping your card. Do that. If the credit card terminal accepts NFC transactions, you should also consider using Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, or Android Pay.
4. Pay Attention to Your Notifications
Banks and credit card companies have fraud detection policies and will reach out to you, usually over the phone or SMS, if they notice something suspicious. If you respond quickly, you may be able to stop attacks before they can affect you, so keep your phone handy.
Use Your Payment Cards Safely
You can examine every inch of every payment machine you encounter and still become a fraud victim. Criminals are always trying new scams to steal your cash. Reporting the crime usually results in swift action from your card issuer or bank, and in some cases, your money may be returned.
Remember, if something doesn't feel right about an ATM or a credit card reader, don't use it. Your bank account will thank you.