Skimming Scams

Skimming scams have been in the news. Here’s a list of ways to protect yourself from potential scams with your debit or credit card.

1. Do a quick scan. If the card reader seems loose, crooked, or damaged, if the graphics aren’t aligned, or if part of the machine is a different color, don’t insert or swipe your card. If there is another ATM nearby compare them to see if there are obvious differences.
2. Be wary of non-bank ATMs. FICO reports that 60% of skimming occurs at privately-owned ATMs. These are typically cash-dispensing machines and tend to be located in gas stations, restaurants, grocery stores, or check cashing establishments.
3. Check the keypad. If the numbers are hard to press or feel thick, it might have a false keypad installed. You should move on to the next machine.
4. Block your PIN. When entering your PIN, cover the keypad with your other hand in case a camera is recording your number.
5. Use mobile wallet. An alternative to swiping your card is using mobile payment apps like Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, or Google Wallet. This form of payment is secure, because your credit card information is tokenized. HPCU offers mobile wallet for our debit card, giving you extra protection when using your debit card. Give it a try on your mobile device today!
6. Pay inside. If your local gas station hasn’t updated their pumps to accept mobile wallet or your aren’t sure if the machine is safe to use, go inside the service station to pay. Taking an extra minute to walk inside could save you a whole load of problems later on.
7. Stay in public view. Always try to use machines that are in public view with security monitoring. These machines are less likely to have been tampered with.  For additional protection, use an ATM inside your bank.
8. Check your account regularly. Rather than wait for your monthly statement, check your account regularly using online and mobile banking. This way, if anything were to happen, you can catch it immediately and report it to the bank or local credit union where your accounts are.
9. Sign up for alerts. Fraud is not 100% preventable, but catching issues immediately will save you a lot of headaches. See what type of fraud alert system your card provider has in place and take advantage of it.
10. Above all, trust your instincts. If you suspect foul play, or if you’re in doubt about the authenticity of a machine, use a different machine or payment method.