CONCORD, NH–Deputy Banking Commissioner Ingrid E. White and Attorney General Joseph A. Foster are urging New Hampshire consumers to be vigilant following a concerning increase in Automated Teller Machine (“ATM”) card skimming frauds. ATM card skimming fraud involves the attachment of electronic devices on or around an ATM to illegally collect data from the magnetic strip of the card, while hidden cameras are also installed to capture the personal identification number entered by the customer. How to reduce the chance of becoming a victim of ATM card skimming: • Check all ATMs and other card-reading devices before use. Signs of card skimmers include: The ATM cover looks loose; scratches or sticky tape residue which might indicate a false ATM front; a pinhole on the machine which could indicate a camera has been installed; an extra keypad layered over the ATM’s keypad; and try jiggling the card reader – if it moves, it could be a card skimmer. • Opt for ATMs inside buildings and in high traffic areas as these are harder for criminals to target. • Cover the keys when entering your pin. If you have a choice, opt for credit (or using your debit card as credit) to prevent criminals from gaining access to your pin. Be more aware on weekends because criminals are more likely to install skimmers after a bank or credit union has closed, making it harder for consumers to report a problem. If you become a victim of ATM card skimming, you should: • Contact your bank immediately to report any suspicious activity on your account. • Continue to monitor you credit report – criminals may continue to use your information. • Contact one of the three major credit bureaus to place a “fraud alert” on your credit records.
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