Unfortunately, debit card fraud is becoming more common. With criminals becoming more sophisticated, debit card fraud is something more people are having to deal with. This is especially true at ATMs. Here at Camino, we take precautions to keep our ATMs safe and secure. Here are some tips to help you avoid fraud at an ATM.
Use ATMs in Well-Lit Areas
Criminals can more easily alter ATMs that are somewhat hidden or dark. One common method of stealing data is installing a skimmer on the ATM machine. A skimmer is installed on top of where you insert your card and transmits your card data to the criminal, while still allowing the ATM machine to work. By using an ATM that is out in the open and is well-lit, they are less likely to try to install a skimmer on that machine.
Cover Your Pin
Whenever you enter your pin, cover the keypad with your other hand. When a criminal installs a skimmer, they also need your pin number. This is often obtained by installing a small camera directly above the keypad. They get your card data from the skimmer, then they get your pin from the camera. With that, they can access your account.
Vary Your Pin
When choosing a pin, don’t use sequential numbers, like 1-2-3-4 or 9-8-7-6. Choose something unique with a varied pattern to make it more difficult for someone watching you to remember or detect.
Set Limits
Most banks have a withdrawal or purchase limit already, but check to see what it is. If your withdrawal limit is set at $500, but you never take out more than $200, lower it. If you never expect to spend more than $1000 in a day, but your daily purchase limit is $3000, lower it. If your debit card info ever gets stolen, this will prevent the amount they are able to take out of your account.
Monitor Your Accounts
Login to your online account at least once a week and look at your recent transactions. If you see anything suspicious, call your financial institution about it right away to report it.
By doing these things, you can help prevent and avoid debit card fraud. To learn more about fraud and what protection we offer for our members, please visit the Consumer Protection page on our website. Should you have any questions, please ask in a branch or give us a call at 800-835-3400.