Elderly woman at the ATM distracted on the phone

Information on ATM fraud!

26 July, 2024

What is an ATM Scam?

Known as ‘distraction fraud,’ this scam occurs when scammers exploit moments of distraction, such as when you are on the phone, or intentionally divert your attention during a transaction to obtain your PIN and steal your card. This often involves ‘shoulder surfing,’ where the scammer observes you entering your PIN by watching over your shoulder.

Types of distraction fraud to watch out for:

ATMS: A scammer watches you enter your PIN at an ATM and then distracts you before you finish your transaction, perhaps by saying you dropped some money. When you look around, the scammer or a partner takes your card from the machine. In the confusion, you might forget to take your card and walk away. The scammer now has both your card and PIN.

Card Swap: A card swap scam can also occur at an ATM. The fraudster watches you enter your PIN. When you go to take your money, the fraudster distracts you while an accomplice swaps your card for a fake one. You end up taking the fake card and your cash, while the fraudster walk away with your real card and PIN.

Supermarkets: When you are paying with a card in a supermarket, a scammer behind you watches you enter your PIN. Outside in the carpark, as you are putting your shopping away, an accomplice distracts you by asking for directions. While you are distracted, your bag or wallet is stolen. The fraudsters now have both your PIN and your card.

Nightclub/Bar Distraction Fraud: Similar to the supermarket distraction, a fraudster watches you enter your PIN while paying for drinks. Your bag or wallet gets stolen soon after this and they now have your card and your PIN.

Image of elderly woman on phone at ATM.

What can I do to best protect myself?

  1. Stay alert to potential distractions shortly after making an ATM transaction or card payment.
  2. Avoid using your phone at ATMs; distractions make you an easy target.
  3. Be alert for ‘shoulder surfing’ – shield your PIN.
  4. Don’t let your card out of your sight when paying for goods or services
  5. Protect your personal information: Safeguard your sensitive information such as passwords, Personal Public Service Number (PPSN) and bank account details, including card information, and avoid sharing them unnecessarily
  6. Check your account regularly and report any suspicious or unrecognised transactions immediately.
  7. Keep your card safe and report any loss or theft to your bank immediately.

What do I do if I think I have fallen for this Scam?

If you think you have fallen for a ATM scam, report it to your credit union and Gardaí immediately.

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