Wellington police have received 12 reports of offending involving card skimming in the last week. Photo: 123RF
Police say people have lost thousands of dollars in card skimming incidents in Wellington.
Card skimming is where an offender installs a device with a camera on an ATM or POS (point of sale) terminal to capture data and record pin numbers with a view to creating fake payment cards and making unauthorised purchases or stealing funds from victim's accounts.
In a statement, acting inspector Tim McIntosh said police had seen a big increase in the number of victims losing large amounts of money due to card skimming incidents.
"In the last week alone, we have received around 12 reports of this offending, where in some cases victims have lost over $5,000."
The public needs to be aware of this type of offending so they can take precautions to keep their cards and data safe, he said.
There are a number of steps people can take to do this:
- 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 your PIN number, use your other hand to block any camera that may be recording.
- Trust in 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.
Police said anyone who thought they had been a victim of card skimming should contact their bank immediately and cancel their cards and accounts.
Card skimming victims were also advised to report it to police with as much information about the incident as possible through 105.police.govt.nz or by calling 105.
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