How to identify if you are being scammed at an ATM
Being ATM scammed is becoming more common and it seems that people have started forgetting the basics. Footage of the scams will help you prevent this from happening to you.
A syndicate in Cape Town has recently been arrested and charged on a number of crimes with respect to ATM fraud and scamming.
Michael Manyana, 51, and Millicent Mkhwanazi, 48, were sentenced to 53 and 50 years respectively for their roles as the syndicate's leaders.
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They preyed on pensioners, students, and tourists for more than seven years between 2005 and 2012.
Their case footage has revealed how they committed these crimes and we can definitely learn a thing or two from the videos.
Here are a few tips to ensure that you don't become a victim of ATM fraud:
- Use ATMs where you feel the most comfortable.
- Be vigilant and avoid using the ATM where suspicious-looking individuals are loitering.
- Have your card ready in your hand before you approach the ATM.
- Do not use the ATM if it appears to be tampered with or damaged.
- Do not accept help from strangers at an ATM, especially when you experience difficulty with the transaction, and do not allow anyone to distract you.
- Shield the ATM keypad with your hand to prevent people seeing when you enter your PIN.
- Never disclose your PIN to anybody, not even to the bank or police.
- Press the Cancel key, withdraw your card, and proceed to another ATM if you feel the ATM is not functioning correctly.
- Use the help line and/or nearest phone to contact your bank and/or police if your card gets jammed, retained or lost, or if someone interferes with you at an ATM.
- Take your time when transacting and ensure your cash and card are carefully secured in your wallet, handbag or pocket before leaving the ATM.