The issue of identity theft is getting big with each passing day. Many people lose their sensitive information just by not staying vigilant when exchanging information. Actually, identity theft is a difficult issue to resolve because it takes place in different forms. Most people believe it to occur when disclosing their credit card number for online shopping. However, there are many other ways to lose your card information and ATM skimming is one of them.

A device is used to collect and record information

In ATM skimming, a device is used to collect and record the information you enter during an ATM transaction. The reason behind the success of this device is that you don’t even realize if it is placed on the ATM machine or not, unless of course, you actively look for it. But, it would still be difficult to recognize this device as it looks like a part of the machine and that was the reason why CIA was astonished to see this device when it was first caught by them.

ATM skimming is serious fraud

ATM skimming is now considered to be a serious fraud issue in America, Australia and other many other parts of the world. Since it is difficult to know if there is a device fitted on a machine, more and more people are becoming a victim of identity theft. Generally, these devices are made of plastic and are affixed to the front of the machine. However, different identity thieves use it in different forms, making it difficult to identify.

Tips to avoid ATM skimming

It is a fact that ATM skimming and identity theft are closely tied to each other but there are some ways to overcome this particular problem. For instance,

* PIN protection is crucial. If you want to stay away from ATM skimming, don’t let others know about your PIN. Try covering your hand when entering your PIN. Avoid writing your PIN on paper and keep changing it on regular basis.
* Pay attention to the appearance of your ATM machine. If you use same machine all the time, check for some changing in its appearance compared to the last time. Watch out for scratches as they may be due to the installation of a skimming device.
* If you find some problem inserting your card into the card slot of an ATM machine, stop trying again and again as it might be due to the presence of a skimming device.
* Always pay attention to the area where keypad is attached to the machine as it is a common place to add skimming devices and speakers.
* Always check your account on regular basis as it will help you to know about some abnormal transactions. In case you see some suspicious transactions, contact your bank as soon as possible.

These are few of the things that you must keep in mind to keep yourself safe. Always remember that ATM skimming is fast becoming popular amongst all identity thieves and you can save yourself just by staying vigilant.

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