ATM Fraud Alert

ATM Fraud Alert: Stay Smart, Stay Safe

As more people use ATMs for quick and convenient banking, criminals are also finding clever ways to steal bank cards and PINs. Here's what you need to know to protect yourself from common ATM scams.

How Criminals Operate (Modus Operandi)

1. Card Swapping

While you're busy at the ATM, a group of scammers may distract you and secretly swap your card—especially after you've already entered your PIN. You might leave with someone else’s card without realizing it. They then use your card and PIN to quickly withdraw your money.

2. Skimming at the ATM

Criminals use small devices to steal the data from your card’s magnetic strip. This can happen when:

  • A person posing as a bank official asks you to swipe your card on a handheld device, pretending to “reactivate” it.
  • The card slot on the ATM looks broken, and someone offers to “help.”
  • A leaflet on the ATM instructs you to swipe your card—this is often fake.

Sometimes, they give your card back, but by then, the data has already been stolen and used to make illegal withdrawals.

3. ATM-Mounted Skimming Devices

Some criminals place fake card slots over the real ones. These fake devices copy your card data while hidden cameras record your PIN. They look almost identical to normal card readers, making them hard to spot.

4. The Lebanese Loop

A thin plastic film is inserted into the ATM card slot to trap your card. You receive your cash, but your card remains stuck. The criminal—who has already watched you enter your PIN—retrieves your card after you leave and uses it to withdraw your money.

What You Should Do – Safety Tips

While Using an ATM:

  • Always be alert to your surroundings. Avoid ATMs with loiterers or suspicious people nearby.
  • Never accept help from strangers, even if they seem well-dressed or polite.
  • If your card is swallowed or the ATM acts strangely, cancel the transaction immediately and call your bank using the toll-free number displayed on the ATM.

Protect Your Card:

  • Never force your card into a slot if it doesn’t go in easily—it may have been tampered with.
  • Know what your ATM looks like. If anything seems out of place (loose card reader, strange screen), do not use it.
  • Never leave your ATM card unattended or let someone else use it.

Protect Your PIN:

  • Never write down your PIN or share it—not even with friends or family.
  • Use your free hand to cover the keypad while entering your PIN.
  • Avoid using obvious numbers like your date of birth or repeating digits.
  • Always key in your PIN yourself—even at restaurants or retail stores.

Protect Your Cash:

  • Be aware of people watching you after you withdraw money.
  • Don't withdraw large amounts unless absolutely necessary. Use your debit card to pay for goods or services instead.
  • Keep your card and cash securely tucked away before leaving the ATM.
  • If asked to return to the ATM to “finalize” a transaction, refuse and walk away.

Extra Safety Tips

  • Set daily withdrawal limits on your account to reduce loss in case your card is compromised.
  • Subscribe to SMS alerts so you know when any money is withdrawn or spent.
  • Check your bank balance regularly and report any suspicious activity immediately.
  • Don’t let your children use your ATM card—they are more vulnerable to scams.

Report Suspicious ATM Activity

If your card is lost, stolen, or trapped by an ATM, call your bank immediately using the toll-free number displayed on the ATM or the back of your card. Don't leave the ATM before blocking your card.

Remember:

Your card is as valuable as cash. Treat it with care, stay aware of your environment, and never let your guard down at the ATM. Your safety comes first!