Debit Card Fraud 1:
A thin piece of rigid film (usually in the form of a section of x-ray film), is cut and shaped then inserted into the area where you insert your card. It is shaped in such a way that a small “ sleeve ” traps the card and prevents it from being returned to you.

Obviously, the people who design these traps have some sort of working knowledge of the machines themselves.

If your card is “ swallowed ” by the ATM it may be a machine fault. However, it may also be the work of a fraudster who will invariably be lurking nearby, possibly waiting for you to leave. Be particularly wary if this happens outside banking hours.

Check to see if you can locate a small slip of clear plastic or x-ray film located around the lip of the machine. If so, removing that will also remove your credit card.

If you cannot see anything, pretend to leave the area and see who makes a “ beeline ” to the ATM. Note, this may place you in danger if the con-artist is violent.

Be particularly suspicious if anybody just happens to turn up to “ assist ” you.

That person could very well be your thief. He or she may then use their body to block your view and then, in a deft movement, palm your credit card into their pocket.

Debit Card Fraud 2)
Mini camera devices are now being concealed and used to record numbers entered at the ATM.

Be particularly suspicious if a plastic brochure holder is placed near the keypad. Banks will not place anything near an ATM. Such an object will be fitted with a lens and a small recording device all shielded and cunningly camouflaged by official bank pamphlets – stolen, of course, from the bank itself.

Look for anything that is not a NORMAL part of the machine. Be aware also of roof mounted devices. These can be taped directly above the ATM with the lens eye pointing downward.

A good way to beat this trick is to mask your keystrokes with your other hand.