Should you be paranoid when using your ATM card?

Paranoid, no but use a healthy sense of caution. ATM skimming is on the increase since thieves are trying to get their last hurrah in before all cards are converted to the chip reader method (a harder method for the crooks to use). Skimming is where a device is attached to an ATM machine. The device records information off of your card such as the card number, security codes, and information from the magnetic stripe on the card. After the information is stolen, thieves use the information to replicate the card and then use or sell the card to others.

There has been an upswing in ATM skimming thefts because thieves know that time is running out. 33rd Street Bail Bonds, an Orlando bail bond company, offers these tips for staying safe at the ATM:
•Look at the ATM before using it. Does anything seem out of place?
•Try and use ATM’s that you are familiar with so that you can recognize if anything is out of place
•Try and use bank ATM’s as much as possible. Thieves have been targeting convenience stores and gas station ATM’s
•Protect your PIN number by shielding the number with your hand
•If signs are posted with alternative instructions, such as scan here first, do not use the ATM and let the store manager, bank, or police know
•Do not accept “help” offered from strangers to use the ATM. Thieves often lurk near the ATM machine in order to gain access to your pin number
•Check your account regularly
•If you are a victim, then contact your bank as soon as possible

Stay vigilant so you don’t become a victim to ATM skimming. Follow the above tips to help keep your information secure.

If you are caught skimming, you can be charged with various offenses including: larceny, identity theft, and other fraud offenses. If this happens, please call 33rd Street Bail Bonds at 407-425-7200 or 407-425-3303 to start the bail bond process. Our Orlando based bail bond company is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, and all year long. All of our bail bond agents are experienced and knowledgeable. They can walk you through the bail bond process, answer any questions that you may have regarding the bail bond process or the criminal justice system, and will keep you informed of all upcoming court appearances. Being arrested can be scary, don’t go it alone. Please call us today!