Loss Prevention & Security Newsletter
Amphion - Executive Safe & Security CorporationTM
1480 S. Carlos Ave, Ontario, CA 91761 (800) 520-2677

Information for Business, Loss Prevention and Security Professionals

Volume #1, Issue #28

ATM SKIMMERS

There are some things that you can do to make it more difficult or eliminate the possibility of you becoming the victim of identity theft.  This is not a guarantee, however you can increase the odds in your favor.  ATM skimmers are on the rise.

This is a new scam to rip off Automated Teller Machines (ATM’s).  Suspects are operating in the United States and Canada.  This operation is being conducted by a gang of individuals that are bilking hundreds of thousands of dollars from their victims. 

The ATM Skimmer is a computerized device that is designed to read the magnetic strips from your bankcard and obtain the account number and the pin number.

It takes less than five n minutes to place the device on an ATM machine and then it is left in place and removed later during the evening or early morning hours.  The device records the account number and has a digital camera that records the your Personal Identification Number (PIN). 

This information is used to make their own credit and debit cards, which they then use to obtain their illicit funds.  It takes less than 30 minutes to max out your funds and lock up your credit.

Consumers (that’s all of us) need to be cognizant of our surroundings when using an ATM machine.  Not only should we be aware of ATM robberies but also we need to look at the machine itself and take stock of anything that does not look appropriate.

Any machine that has connected objects needs to be reported immediately to the bank or responsible institution but should not be used.  Remember that your credit is on the line and identity theft is an ugly experience. 

We are also part of an electronic society and we routinely send confidential information over the Internet, ATM machines and often over the phone.  Information that is electronically transmitted can be intercepted by the criminal elements.  Once this information is in the hands of the criminal, it becomes very easy to apply for credit cards, loans and other services in your name.

About the author: Michael V. Vaughn is a retired 33-year veteran of the Los Angeles Police Department and was the Officer-in-Charge of the Career Criminal Apprehension & Gang Section.  He is also a retired Command Sergeants Major in the Army Reserves and has an extensive history in the loss prevention field.  Mike is an expert in a variety of law enforcement subjects and has lectured around the globe including appearances before congress.  He is currently the Director of Loss Prevention for Executive Safe and Security Corporation.   Mike has provided training; consulting and articles for the International Mass Retail Association, various corporations and law enforcement. 

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