1. Trust your instincts.
If anything, anything at all, looks out of place on an ATM, don’t use it. If you
see a wire poking out, or the plastic on the card reader doesn’t quite match, or
there appears to be some unusual wear and tear around the card slot, walk away.
It could be fine, but why take a risk?
2. Look for mirrors, leaflet holders or anything else around the ATM.
The machine should be free from anything like that, so add-ons are another huge
red flag. They hide cameras behind these devices.
3. Guard your PIN carefully.
As most skimmers require two pieces of information from you, the PIN is
something you can at least stop them from getting. You may seem a little
paranoid to anyone waiting in line behind you, but who cares? Just cover your
actions by cupping one hand over the numbers as your other hand enters them.
It’s rudimentary but it works.
4. Take advantage of the debit card “cash back” feature.
When you’re running low on cash, and a grocery or convenience store will give
you cash back if you pay for your purchase with a debit card. Simply hit the
amount of cash you need. It’s free, saving you the $2-$3 ATM fee, and it’s
safer.
5. Become a creature of habit and use the same ATM each time.
This won’t protect you from encountering a skimmer, but you’re much more likely
to notice something fishy if you are familiar with the machine.
6. Look for ATMs with video surveillance.
These machines have extra security and this additional level of protection
deters thieves from installing the skimming devices.
7. Beware of ATMs that are off the beaten track.
The thief will have more opportunity to install a skimmer on a machine that’s
out of the way. If you can, use an ATM inside the branch — these are almost
impossible to manipulate. The portable ATMs, like you find in gas stations, are
also very easy to mess with. I stay away from them unless I have no
alternatives.
8. Don’t be afraid to poke and prod the ATM.
If something looks odd, investigate. These skimming devices are designed to be
removed easily an quickly. If the thief can take it off, so can you.
9. NEVER use an ATM if someone is offering to help you with it.
That may seem really obvious, but thieves can dress as technicians, bank
tellers, or pose as another customer. Imagine an old lady asking for help, maybe
asking if she can see how you use the machine so that she knows what to do. Or a
guy in a very official uniform telling you the machine has just been cleaned,
inspected, or refilled. These are all signs that you should walk away.
10. Finally, if you do suspect something, let the local branch, gas station, or
store know.
It may be a false alarm, but you could prevent someone being ripped off who
isn’t as vigilant as you are.
Snopes also has some great information on ATM skimmers. And The Consumerist
offers the following pdf that outlines many more skimmers and the ways you can
look out for them. I advise you all to read it and pass on the information in
it, and this article.
Please, be careful, and if in doubt, walk away.