Woodlands Bank News

What is Skimming?

Skimming is the practice of stealing ATM, Debit/Check Card and Credit Card account numbers off the card's magnetic strip by swiping it through a portable card swipe. It is a small, inexpensive device that is inserted into an ATM, ready to swipe the information from an unsuspecting customer. In addition, a camera is usually present to capture the keystrokes used to enter the password. With this information, the thieves can easily create a duplicate card and get into the account. What can you do?

Always protect your PIN.
Don't write the number down
Cover the keypad while you enter the number
Don't give the PIN number out to anyone
Know where the security cameras are located. While many ATM have cameras, they won't be positioned to record the keypad.
Be wary to any offers of 'help' with your ATM transaction.
Be suspicious of a machine that has signage indicating you should use a specific machine.
Use a different machine if you feel uncomfortable about the ATM instructions
Report anything that seems suspicious or strange about the ATM machine to your financial institution.
Alert us immediately to any suspicious activity around a Woodlands Bank ATM. This could include anyone who offers to help you, tries to look over your shoulder or is taking pictures in the area.