Cebu Bankers Club issues anti-ATM scam advisory

In an effort to assist the banking public in recent reported skimming incidents in the cities and province of Cebu, the Cebu Bankers Club (CBC) on Wednesday issued an advisory on the use of Automated Teller Machine (ATM) cards.

“In order to avert falling victim to ATM Fraud, the Club is issuing a warning to the public to take the following steps when using their ATM Cards to withdraw money from their accounts,” CBC said in its public advisory.

The organization came up with the advisory following a board meeting on Wednesday.

CBC past president Maximo Rey Eleccion, in a text message to Cebu Daily News, said the board has decided to decline giving interviews at the moment and issue advisories instead.

In its latest advisory, CBC laid down tips on how to avoid ATM skimming and how to use ATMs safely.

TIPS

1. Choose a machine that is located in a well-lighted, unobstructed and conspicuous area.

2. Be sure that the machine is free from signs of tampering or loose parts.
(Example: Loose Card Reader, Pin Pad Cover, Pin Pad, etc…)

3. Do not use an ATM machine if you notice someone is watching you or if you sense something is wrong or out of place.

4. Before using the ATM, examine nearby objects that might conceal a camera, check the card slot for any plastic sheath/covering before inserting your card.

5. Beware of strangers offering to help you with an ATM transaction.

6. When entering your PIN, stand close to the machine and hold your hand over the Pin Pad or screen to make it more difficult for a person or camera to watch you.

Furthermore, CBC enumerated tips on how to protect one’s ATM card.

1. Never divulge your PIN to anybody.

2. Never keep a written copy of your PIN in your wallet/purse.

3.Change your PIN regularly.

4. Do not use a PIN related to your personal information.
(Example: Birthdate, Anniversaries, SSS/GSIS Nos., Address etc…)

5. Never write your PIN on the ATM.

6. Monitor your account balances all the time.

7. Make sure to familiarize yourselves with your bank’s official telephone numbers for immediate reporting of suspicious transactions. If you suspect an unauthorized transaction against your account, immediately report it to your bank.