KNYSNA NEWS - The Knysna police observed a number of attempts by perpetrators to defraud unsuspecting cardholders at ATMs over the past month and would like to warn members of the public to take extra care.
These criminals are usually smartly dressed with a professional appearance. They also sometimes act as security guards or as car guards.
The perpetrators normally leave a slip or card at the machine before they leave. Upon their return they start a conversation with the would-be victim at the ATM in an effort to win trust and offer assistance.
During this period they swap the card or obtain the victim's security PIN.
Our preliminary investigation indicates that perpetrators are using hired vehicles, usually registered in a name of someone else.
They mostly target ATMs that are being used by tourists in the CBD and its surroundings, explained Knysna police spokesperson Sergeant Chris Spies.
Many of these incidents were prevented, however, due to strong partnerships with banks security, neighbourhood watch volunteers, security companies and law enforcement agencies.
The partnerships also made use of CCTV recordings in an effort to deal with these incidents.
We appeal to the public to report any incident immediately to 08600 10111.
Keep your card and money safe:
• Be alert and conscious of your surroundings when using the ATM.
• Never give your card or PIN to anyone, for any reason.
• Don’t write your PIN on the card or anything that is kept with the card.
• Do not insert your card until asked to do so by the display screen.
• Never use an ATM with a blank screen and, if the ATM is obscured from view or poorly lit, leave immediately and find another ATM.
• Stand close to the ATM and use your body and hand as shield to make sure nobody sees you keying in your PIN.
• Also, make sure you keep your hand over the card slot to make sure nobody can swop or take your card.
• Never accept help from strangers when using an ATM. You should be wary of strangers asking for help.
• Criminals work in teams – one to distract you while the other steals your card or money.
• If your card is retained (swallowed) by the ATM it is advisable to phone your bank's toll-free line immediately and stop your card.
• Never allow a bystander to call the toll-free line on your behalf – they could be tricking you into thinking your card has been stopped.
• Guards are placed at ATMs to discourage criminal activities and therefore cannot help you with transactions.
• If you need help, ask a bank official.
• It is advisable to set a daily ATM withdrawal limit at your branch.
Read a previous article: Be aware of ATM fraud in Knysna
'We bring you the latest Knysna, Garden Route news'
