Why is the card in the wallet but the account still "evaporates" tens of millions?
Bad guys can use skimmer devices to copy information on ATM cards to create fake cards without the user knowing.
Through initial investigation by the authorities, the suspect used devices to record the victim's ATM card information and password, then created a "clone" card (fake card) and used them to make transactions.
Identify skimmer devices
Not only appearing in Vietnam, the above fraud method has been used in many places around the world. Accordingly, a small device called a skimmer will be attached to the card reader slot of the ATM.
According to Thebalance, this device is larger in size but its appearance and color are similar to a card reader slot. Therefore, if you do not observe carefully, it is difficult for users to recognize its existence.
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| The skimmer devices have the same appearance and color as real card readers. Photo: RiskEvolves. |
When the user inserts the card, the device captures and copies all the information printed on the card including the magnetic stripe, card number, expiration date as well as the cardholder's full name.
Thus, the criminals have obtained all the information on the card without the victim knowing. From there, they will create "cloned" cards (fake cards) containing the real information of the account owner.
In addition to copying information to make fake cards, criminals will also install other devices to steal account login PINs. One of the most commonly used methods is to install surveillance cameras or use fake keyboards that are placed on top of real keyboards and record all user actions, including the process of entering PINs.
What should cardholders do?
Mr. Phung Duy Khuong - Director of Retail Division, Deputy General Director of VietinBank said that previously, card information stealing devices (Skimming) were attached to ATMs during the week so that bank staff could detect and handle them. However, recently, fraudulent devices have been attached to ATMs on holidays, making it difficult to control.
Therefore, users need to proactively take measures to protect their personal accounts. Before making transactions at an ATM, users should check the card reader and the keypad. If they find any unusual protrusions, looseness or tape, it is likely that the ATM has been equipped with a Skimming device. In addition, when entering the account PIN, users should cover it with their hand to avoid being tracked by surveillance cameras.
Furthermore, in daily transactions, cardholders should not hand over their ATM or credit cards to the payment staff without controlling the card swiping process. This can create opportunities for criminals to copy your card information.
Especially for credit cards, users should remember the three security numbers on the back of the card (CCV number) in a safe place. Then, cardholders can scrape off these three numbers to prevent the risk of losing the card, and limit sharing photos of the card and card information on social networks.
In addition, many banks also recommend that customers keep their passwords secret and register for the SMS Banking balance change notification service to control their accounts and promptly prevent fraudulent behavior.
