How to spot a fake: Protect yourself against ATM card skimming

One of the most empowering  feelings you can have is the rush of spotting a scam a mile away, not only do you feel like an everyday hero but you save yourself a lot of hassle in the long run. In a world where card skimming and ATM fraud is a harsh reality, be your own crime fighting super hero by recognising the signs.

Times have well and truly changed since the days of bandits Bonnie and Clyde, criminals are now focused on targeting your hard earned dollars via ATMs, and they don’t even have to wear a three piece suit to do it anymore. Card skimming machines can be fitted to ATMs and could then extract your card information granting them access to your account. Don’t forget, ING are here to support with a dedicated team to protect customers from fraud, but if you know what to look for you’ll be able to spot a high risk ATM.

To help ensure you don’t get caught out here’s a few pointers to stay on your guard with your card:

1. How to spot a fake: just like in the movies, nothing good happens in dark, deserted alleyways. Make sure you are aware of any suspicious looking ATMs, only use machines in high-traffic areas, where it would be difficult for criminals to spend time tampering with the machine. If the machine looks damaged or distorted, particularly the card slot, don’t use it.
2. Go undercover: we aren’t saying you need to don a full disguise to protect your card against skimming devices, but aside from card skimming a key element of what these criminals do is stealing your PIN, so when you are using the machine make sure you place a hand over the PIN pad and ward off any pesky peekers.
3. Ditch the evidence: Go cardless if you can – it’s the easy, secure and private way to pay. Thanks to Apple Pay and Google Pay you no longer have to exchange your card details with merchants and it’s easier than ever to go cashless.
4. Always be on the lookout: Check your account regularly so you can pick up on any suspect transactions. If you think you’ve been skimmed, don’t stress – using the ING app you can put your card on hold and make sure you alert our customer care team on 133 464 of the suspicious activity.

Using an ATM is quick and easy but don’t let the choice of an at risk ATM ruin your day, recognise the signs and protect yourself against ATM fraud.

If your Visa card is used without your permission or you suspect your PIN is known to someone else, lost or stolen, contact us straightaway on 133 464 or visit ing.com.au/contactus (when you’re overseas).