How to Protect Yourself from ATM Skimmers and Shimmers

How to Protect Yourself from ATM Skimmers and Shimmers

If you've watched local news over the past several years, you've probably heard about ATM skimmers and shimmers. These devices are used by criminals to steal your credit card information. While they're not as common as some other types of fraud, they can still cause a lot of financial damage.

What is an ATM skimmer?

An ATM skimmer is a device that is placed over the card reader on an ATM machine. When you insert your card into the skimmer, it reads your credit card number, expiration date, and CVV code. This information can then be used to create a counterfeit card or to make online purchases in your name.

What is a shimmer?

A shimmer is a device that is inserted into the chip reader on an ATM machine. When you insert your card into the chip reader, the shimmer reads your chip data. This information can then be used to clone your card or to make online purchases in your name.

How to spot an ATM skimmer or shimmer

There are a few things you can look for to spot an ATM skimmer or shimmer:

Loose or damaged parts. If the ATM machine looks like it's been tampered with, it's best to avoid using it.

A different color or texture than the rest of the machine. Skimmers and shimmers are often made of a different material than the rest of the ATM machine, so they may stand out.

A hidden camera. Skimmers and shimmers often have a hidden camera that is used to record your PIN number. If you see a small hole or lens near the card reader, it's best to avoid using the ATM machine.

How to protect yourself from ATM skimmers and shimmers

The best way to protect yourself from ATM skimmers and shimmers is to be aware of the risks and to take precautions. Here are a few tips:

Inspect the ATM machine before using it. Look for any loose or damaged parts, a different color or texture, or a hidden camera.

Cover your PIN number when you enter it. This will make it more difficult for someone to see your PIN number.

Use a credit card instead of a debit card. Credit cards offer more fraud protection than debit cards.

Pay with your phone whenever possible. Contactless payments are more secure than traditional chip and PIN payments.

What to do if you think you've been scammed

If you think you've been scammed by an ATM skimmer or shimmer, there are a few things you can do:

Report the incident to your bank or credit card company. They will be able to cancel your card and issue you a new one.

File a police report. This will help law enforcement track down the criminals responsible.

Additional tips

In addition to the tips above, here are a few more things you can do to protect yourself from ATM skimmers and shimmers:

Use ATMs that are located in well-lit and public areas. Criminals are less likely to target ATMs that are in busy areas.

Be aware of your surroundings when you are using an ATM. If you see someone who looks suspicious, don't use the ATM.

If you are using an ATM that is not familiar to you, take a picture of it before you use it. This will help you identify the ATM if you think you have been scammed.

By following these tips, you can help protect yourself from ATM skimmers and shimmers.