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 A message from Greater Iowa President/CEO Scott Zahnle
In June, Greater Iowa learned that some of our members’ debit cards had been compromised due to fraud sometime around Memorial Day weekend. At least one skimmer, a device used by scammers to illegally obtain the card information of unknowing ATM users, was found on a gas station ATM located across the street from our West Des Moines branch. Our West Des Moines ATM has been inspected by Greater Iowa staff, the West Des Moines Police and by the hardware manufacturer. No skimmer or any physical evidence of a skimmer was found.
However, our card processor was able to identify members that may have very well had their debit cards compromised in the 22nd Street area in West Des Moines. While our ATM was found to be free of skimmers, it is possible that there may have been a skimmer on our ATM and others in this area of West Des Moines at some point.
It is important to note that the only information compromised with a skimming device involves the debit card itself, not account or personal information. Once the compromised card is shut off, those who illegally obtained the card information can no longer use it.
Through the diligent work of our staff, we have been able to issue new cards and have refunded lost monies to those who have reported fraudulent transactions and order cards for members that may have had their card compromised but have not seen any fraud on their accounts. GICU will continue to closely monitor the accounts of those potentially affected.
Additionally, we will continue to work with local authorities to aid in any criminal investigation. At this time, two arrests have been made in connection with fraud in the 22nd Street area of West Des Moines.
Greater Iowa maintains rigorous safety protocols to ensure the safety of our members' personal and financial information. The regular review of our ATMs is part of standard procedure.
To help all of our members, below are some basic tips to remember when using an external ATM. |
| | Tips for ATM Safety
ATMs in weird locations
Cash is convenient. While it’s tempting to use whatever ATM is handy when the need arises, that can be risky. ATMs in financial institutions are regularly monitored, maintained and covered by security cameras. In contrast, an ATM in a store corner may not get that same attention. Most of these machines are privately owned, and the operators assume little liability for their safety.
Use ATMs in secure locations, like financial institutions. They’re safer and well maintained. If you must, choose ATMs in highly visible and public areas to minimize encountering a tampered machine.
Recent work
Two modifications are common in ATM scams. The first is a duplicate keypad on top of the existing one which relays PIN information to a third party, enabling fraud at a later time. The second is a phony card reader which processes your card information and sends it elsewhere. These scams have become more common and harder to detect as 3-D printing technology has improved and become more accessible.
Several signs hint at a machine that has been tampered with. First, keypads get worn over time. If an old machine has new-looking keys, something may have been modified. Similarly, card readers develop scuffs and scratches; new-looking card readers are another red flag. Second, scammers install devices quickly, and may use quick fixes like electrical tape which leave signs of modification.
If you think an ATM has been modified, don’t use it.
Nearby strangers
Some scammers use their own senses to rob you. Standing behind you, the scammer will watch you enter your PIN. If successful, the scammer will mark you for pickpocketing and then use your ATM card to empty your account.
Other scammers use an accomplice who drops a bag behind you just after you enter your PIN and may also engage you in conversation. While you’re distracted, the scammer grabs your card and replaces it with a phony, or just takes the cash you’ve withdrawn and runs.
To protect yourself, cover your hand when entering your PIN, stand close to the machine, and keep an eye out for anyone sitting near the machine on a laptop – they may be monitoring a camera designed to capture your PIN. Most importantly, stay focused. Watch your belongings, and ignore anyone who approaches you until you’ve finished your transaction.
If you think you’ve been victimized by ATM fraud, report it immediately. Waiting to report the scam could mean you’re responsible for all the bills the criminal racks up, but if you report it within two days, your liability is capped at $50.
During business hours, notify Greater Iowa immediately at 1.800.296.9064. If the credit union is closed, call 1.866.820.1073. If you are traveling internationally, you can call collect to 727.572.7723 from anywhere at any time of day. |
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| | The information contained in this email (the “Content”) is provided for informational and educational purposes only, without any express or implied warranty of any kind, including warranties of accuracy, completeness, or fitness for any particular purpose. The Content is not intended to be and does not constitute financial, investment, tax or accounting advice or a solicitation to buy or sell securities. The Content is necessarily general in nature and is not specific to you or anyone else. YOU SHOULD CONSULT YOUR OWN INVESTMENT, TAX OR ACCOUNTING ADVISORS BEFORE IMPLEMENTING ANY ADVICE INCLUDED IN THE CONTENT. By viewing or utilizing the Content, you agree that you will not hold DocuMatix, Inc., Greater Iowa Credit Union [GICU] or their affiliates or agents responsible for loss or damages resulting from the Content. |
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