Card skimming is on the rise in the capital with Wellington police saying people have lost “thousands of dollars” in recent weeks.
Card skimming is when an offender installs a device with a camera on an ATM or POS (point of sale) terminal to capture card data and record pin numbers.
The information obtained was then used to create fake payment cards to make unauthorised purchases or withdraw funds from victim’s accounts.
Wellington District Operations manager acting Inspector Tim McIntosh said there had been an increase in the number of victims losing “large amounts” of money to card skimming.
“In the last week alone, we have received around 12 reports of this offending, where in some cases victims have lost over $5000.”
The public needed to be aware of the offending so precautions could be taken to keep their cards and data safe, he said.
- Always double check an ATM or POS terminal. Look out for signs of damage or tampering, loose or unattached pieces, or a different colour variation on the device.
- Block your PIN number. When entering a PIN number, use your other hand to block any camera that may be recording.
- Trust what you know. A large majority of card skimming takes place at non-bank ATM machines due to increased security and cameras around bank ATMs.
- Follow your instinct. If you feel something is off or suspicious about an ATM or POS terminal, check-in with a bank or store staff member.
- Regularly check on your accounts. This will not only allow you to keep track of where you have spent your money, but will also ensure you can act quickly in the case your money has been stolen.
McIntosh said anyone who thought they could be a victim of card skimming should contact their bank immediately and cancel both the cards and the accounts.
Victims were also urged to “gather as much information as you can” and report the incident to police on 105.
