Skimming: 7 tips to protect yourself against this scam

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In recent years, we have seen an unprecedented proliferation of credit card scams. One such scam is skimming, a practice in which criminals use to steal users’ financial information.

In this article, we'll explore what skimming means, discuss the different types of this threat, and provide practical strategies to protect yourself against this type of fraud, whether at ATMs or when shopping online.

What is Skimming?
The term "skimming" comes from the English "to skim", which means "to read fluently". This is a type of fraud that affects credit and debit cards. Criminals steal information from victims' cards and use it to make purchases online or in physical stores. Typically, specialized machines are used to read card numbers, which are then transferred to fake cards.

Types of Skimming and their tactics
1. At automatic teller machines
ATM skimming is one of the most common methods. This iceland whatsapp number database for two reasons: because ATMs are usually located in public places and, above all, because they have less stringent security measures than other devices.

Criminals usually install devices over the ATM reader and often use mirrors to view the victim's PIN. It is recommended to always cover the keypad when entering the secret code during the transaction.

2. At payment terminals
Fake readers installed in payment terminals allow the magnetic strips on cards to be read. However, with the rise of contactless technology, this type of skimming is becoming less common.

3. On websites and online stores (E-skimming)
Users can also be targeted by skimming when making online purchases, known as e-skimming. In this case, criminals exploit vulnerabilities in online payment methods to steal financial data.

How is Skimming performed?
What methods can skimming be used for? Criminals have several ways of committing this fraud. Some of the most common are:

1. Spying on the user: This aims to steal the card PIN when its owner withdraws money from an ATM.

2. Using malware on ATMs: This software is not only capable of stealing credit and debit card credentials, but also allows you to carry out other criminal operations, such as distributing the stolen money to other accounts.

3. Using the overlay: Placing a fake card reader over the authentic one.

Pinhole Cameras: Recording of the ATM keyboard and transmitting the image to the criminal.
Fake keyboards in automatic teller machines: Reproduction of user keystrokes.
Protect yourself from skimming: 7 practical tips
Keep your credit or debit cards safe: Do not leave your cards in plain sight and always supervise them.
Cover the keypad: When using ATMs or payment terminals, cover the keypad when entering your PIN.
Use e-wallets and contactless payments: Opt for secure payment methods, such as e-wallets, that use contactless technology.
Visual inspection: When using ATMs or payment terminals, check for suspicious elements.
Prefer EMV payments: At payment terminals, choose to use EMV readers instead of swiping the magnetic strip.
Secure online shopping: Always choose secure online stores, with HTTPS protocol and other security measures.
Immediate action if suspected: If you suspect a skimming scam, cancel your card immediately and request a new one from your bank.
By understanding skimming, its varieties, and taking proactive measures, we can protect ourselves against this growing threat. It never hurts to be vigilant and adopt good practices to ensure the security of our financial information.