How to protect your bank card from sophisticated fraud

Bank card scanning devices (also known as skimmers) are becoming more sophisticated and harder to detect than ever, often hidden in ATMs, self-service payment terminals, or even vending machines, all ready to steal your financial data without you knowing.

While complete safety cannot be guaranteed in all situations, there are some signs and measures that can help you detect if a card-swiping device is secretly collecting your personal data.

What is a bank card scanner?

A bank card skimmer is a sophisticated device that criminals illegally install on ATMs or card readers in stores. Through this, they can collect your card information without having to steal the physical card.

Not only does this threaten your account, but more dangerously, your card information can be sold on the dark web or used to create fake cards in your name.

In addition to facing unauthorized withdrawals or purchases, having your card swiped can open the door to a host of other fraudulent activities.

Criminals can then use your information to make illegal transactions or even counterfeit credit cards, causing serious financial loss and compromising the security of your personal information.

These card readers are usually small and compact, and can be easily installed in card slots or other parts of the ATM that you may not notice. They are designed to read the data on your card as soon as you insert it into the reader. Some card readers are also equipped with tiny cameras to record your PIN when you log in.

In some cases, criminals even replace the real keyboard with a fake one to steal your PIN. Once they have collected the details, criminals can use this information to make illegal transactions or sell it on the dark web.

While card readers can be installed in almost any point-of-sale (POS) system, they are most commonly found at gas pumps, ATMs, and in-store self-checkout kiosks.

Criminals choose these locations because they have high traffic but often come with limited security surveillance systems, making it easy and secretive to install card-swiping equipment.

How to detect fake card scanning devices

Although card readers are sophisticatedly designed to be difficult for users to identify or differentiate from genuine devices, there are still ways you can detect and identify fake card readers.

1. The card reader is misaligned or moved.

Before making a transaction, carefully inspect the card reader to make sure it hasn't been tampered with. If you notice any parts that are out of alignment, protruding, or otherwise unusual, the ATM may have a counterfeit card-swiping device installed.

Another sign of a counterfeit is if the card reader feels loose or moves. Genuine card readers will not wobble or feel unstable.

So before you insert your card, compare the reader to the ones you normally use. If you notice anything unusual, such as the device looking bulky, oddly shaped, or unstable, notify a bank employee immediately and find another ATM or POS to use.

2. Camera facing the keyboard

Thieves often use hidden cameras combined with card readers to record your PIN, increasing the possibility of collecting complete financial information.

Before inserting your card into the reader, take a few seconds to check around the area for anything suspicious. Pay special attention to the spaces above the card reader, as these are often ideal places to hide a camera. If there is a camera, you may notice a small hole or lens aimed directly at the keypad.

Additionally, if you have a smartphone with you, you can use it to check for hidden cameras. Many apps or features on your phone allow you to detect infrared light from cameras that are not easily seen by the naked eye. A few minutes of caution can go a long way toward keeping your financial information safer.

How to prevent card theft

Checking your card reader and keypad for counterfeit devices is one of the most effective ways to prevent fraud. However, there are other steps you can take to further protect your personal and financial information.

1. Choose your ATM or POS machine carefully

If not absolutely necessary, you should prioritize choosing ATMs located in well-lit areas with good security. Similarly, when using POS systems in retail stores, choose devices that are easily observed, such as near the checkout counter or the store's help area.

Avoid using ATMs in isolated or poorly lit areas, as these are often easy targets for criminals. Before using, check by gently pulling or shaking the card reader and keypad to see if there are any loose or potentially attached parts.

Also, always cover the keypad with your hand when entering your PIN. While not a perfect solution, this can prevent hidden cameras from recording your PIN.

2. Use contactless payments

Contactless payments (Tap to Pay) and e-wallets are considered the safest options when paying at obscure or high-risk locations, as they allow you to make transactions without having to insert your card into a reader.

If you are at a gas station, check to see if you can pay directly at the counter inside or use cash. These methods often offer a higher level of security, helping to protect your financial information more effectively.

3. Track your transactions

No matter how careful you are about checking for and detecting skimming devices, the risk cannot be completely eliminated. So be proactive and monitor your bank and credit card statements regularly.

This helps you quickly detect any suspicious or unauthorized transactions, promptly report and handle them with the bank, protecting your finances from potential threats.

What to do if your card is stolen?

You may not realize your card information has been stolen until days or even weeks later. However, if you discover that your card information has been stolen, contact your card issuer as soon as possible. Acting quickly will help protect your account and reduce the risk of losing money in your account.

With the rise of threats like card skimming, vigilance is always the best weapon. If you see any suspicious signs on a card reader, it is best to avoid using it. And if you suspect you have become a victim, do not hesitate to report it to your bank to protect your account and your finances in the best way possible.