This ATM Scam Is Masquerading As an Act of Kindness.
Withdrawing money from an ATM can be quite a nerve-wracking experience, depending on where you are and what time of day or night it is. If someone shows you some kind of altruistic behavior, such as telling you that you dropped some money on the floor, it can lower your defenses and give you hope that the universe is not out to get you. Except you’re wrong: this person may be trying to swindle money out of you with the latest ploy, which is New York ATM hacking .
How does ATM fraud work?
Fraud begins with the fact that the victim withdraws money from an ATM. As soon as they stick the pin into the ATM, the scammer pats them on the shoulder, pointing to the money they left on the floor, telling the victim that they dropped it. When the victim reaches for the money, the scammer takes the victim’s card and sometimes replaces it with a fake.
According to the New York Daily News , more than one scammer (typically two to four men or women) may be involved in this stunt. One of the other scammers would have seen the victim’s pin before being patted on the back. After receiving the card and pin code, they go to other ATMs and empty the account. If the card was a credit card, the scammers won’t need a pin and can just spend the money anywhere (although you can easily get that money back at the bank).
The scam appears to have started on New York’s Upper East Side, according to NBC 4 New York, but it has already spread to all parts of the city and it wouldn’t be surprising to see it in other parts of the country or internationally.
How not to become a victim
Be aware of your surroundings. If you know there was no cash on the floor when you got to the ATM, and you haven’t withdrawn the cash yet and taken it with you, you know the cash isn’t yours. If someone tells you it is, just say it’s not for you and go about your business. If you are not sure if it belongs to you, first remove the card and then collect it or collect it after the transaction is completed.
If the cash is indeed yours, or if you have dropped your keys or any other object into the ATM, simply step on it and keep it close to you. Keep your eyes on the ATM or card until you’re done with it. If you spot a person or group of people acting suspiciously at an ATM, just walk away.
What to do if you become a victim
Never try to fight back or physically take a card from a thief or scammer. They might be armed, and it’s not worth the risk. First, call your bank and let them know what happened. They should be able to freeze and replace your card as soon as you report it stolen. Then call the local police.