ATM Security

Media have reported that card skimming at ATM machines has become increasingly across Indonesia. Please read here. The scams emerged after bank customers in Bali reported money missing from their accounts, with similar cases turning up in Jakarta and East Kalimantan The police now have 13 suspects in custody for various ATM-related crimes in different parts of the country. Several bank officials came forward over the weekend to reassure customers their accounts were safe and any missing money would be promptly refunded. At this point panic is unwarranted and rumors and text messages saying major banks will blockade ATM services appear untrue.

ATM Skimming and Pin Capturing

ATM skimming is a world-wide problem. Card skimming is the illegal copying of information from the magnetic strip of a credit or debit card. Criminals try to steal your details so they can access your account either locally or overseas. Successful skimming requires both a card skimmer (card reader) and camera (PIN capturing device) to be fitted to the ATM in order to steel card data.

What is PIN Capturing?

PIN capturing refers to a method of strategically attaching camera and other various imaging device to ATMs to fraudulently capture PIN numbers. Once captured, the electronic data is encoded to fraudulent cards and the captured PINs are used to withdraw money from customers’ accounts.

ATM Skimming Device

PIN Capturing Devices

How Can You Reduce the Risk

• When selecting a PIN, avoid numbers that relate to your personal information. For example, don't use your birthday, or telephone number.
• Familiarize yourself with the appearance of your ATM.
• Use secure ATM machines – under video surveillance or inside of a bank lobby.
• Cover the ATM keypad as you're entering your PIN.
• Skimming devices will stick out a few extra inches from an ATM. If something looks suspicious, find another ATM and report it to the bank or police.
• Don't accept "help" from anybody hanging around the ATM machine. They may say they were having trouble also and you just need to enter your PIN again.
• Check your bank account and statements when you get them. If you transaction that you cannot explain, report it to the bank immediately.
• Change your PIN regularly and using different PINs for different accounts.

Using EDC (Electronic Data Capture)

• Always cover your hand with your other hand when entering your PIN.
• If a shop assistant looks wants to swipe out your card out of your sight or in a second machine, you should ask for your card back straight away and either pay with cash or not make the purchase.
• EDC receipts should be kept secure. Destroy them if not needed.
• If you think your card has been skimmed, contact your bank immediately to report it.

Thank you for your attention and be careful.