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Video: District attorney’s office warns of ATM scam

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Prosecutor Provides Tips to Prevent ATM Fraud from LADAOffice on Vimeo.

LOS ANGELES – ATM cameras are typically used to catch criminals using a stolen card, but thieves have found ways to shoot their own video to steal cash, warns the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office.

“Fraudsters are placing Bluetooth pinhole cameras, which are small and easy to overlook, above an ATM keypad to record PIN numbers. They also use fake ATM card readers equipped with skimming devices to capture the card’s magnetic strip information,” said Maria Ramirez, Head Deputy of the High Technology Crime Division. “Armed with the PIN number and the stolen data, thieves can make counterfeit cards, sell the valuable information or shop online.”

Authorities recommend the following tips to protect against ATM fraud:

  • Look at the card reader to see if there is anything novel or different. Most newer ATMs have a flashing card slot light.
  • Monitor your bank account daily and review all written monthly statements.
  • Do not allow anyone to assist or “shoulder surf” you at the ATM.
  • Use ATMs located inside a bank branch.

If you or someone you know has been the victim of this type of scam, contact the Los Angeles County Department of Consumer and Business Affairs at 800-593-8222 or visit http://dcba.lacounty.gov.

[Information via news release from the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office.]

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5 comments for "Video: District attorney’s office warns of ATM scam"

  1. I have been a victim three times. I was using my card at Shell on Challenger Way & K. I always paid at the pump. My card was compromised and used in Norwalk, South Gate. I had had to change my bank card twice and my credit card once. Once I stopped going to Shell I have had no more problems. I was told by a bank rep that others who have used their card at this particular Shell had there cards compromised as well.

    • SAME THING HAPPEND TO ME AT THIS SAME GAS STATION AND IT WAS ALSO USE IN NORWALK SOUTH GATE AND ANAHEIM… MY CARD WAS COMPROMISED TWICE AT THIS SAME LOCATION

    • I have also had problems with the Shell station on K and 10th street east. My card was used in Encino all the way to Fresno. I only use cash now.
      I had spoken with Kelly the owner and her response was then go somewhere else and get your gas. She does not want to take responsibility for her business being involved with fraud.

  2. This just happened to me. I made my first gasoline purchase at the Sam’s Club station in Palmdale. Within 2 days my bank called and asked if I attempted to make a purchase at another Sam’s Club in Norwalk. I have never been to Norwalk. So they stopped it from happening again when someone tried to purchase jewelry at another Sam’s Club.
    Be very careful. Even if you only use your card as a credit purchase and use your zip code.