Tweet
ATM card skimmers
90 people are victims of ATM card skimmers in High Desert
Thieves using ATM card skimmers have stolen money from at least 90 people in the High Desert during the past several weeks, sheriff's officials said.
San Bernardino County sheriff's deputies suspect accounts at Desert Community Bank, Alaska Federal Credit Union and Arrowhead Credit Union have been compromised due to the scheme.
Deputies have noticed a spike in thefts involving the fraudulent use of ATM cards in Apple Valley, Hesperia, Victorville and other areas of the High Desert. Investigators discovered thieves are using a card-skimming device placed on the outside of an ATM. The device captures information from the card's magnetic strip. They also used binoculars or video cameras to watch people enter their personal identification number or PIN.
The thieves then created clone cards to withdraw money from San Bernardino banks.
Deputies suggest the following tips:
- Inspect ATMs for unusual devices. If you are not sure if the device is legitimate, don't use it and report it to your bank.
- Cover your typing hand with your other hand while entering your PIN.
- Check your account balance and bank statements frequently. Report any suspicious activity on your account to your bank.
Anyone who may have been victimized in the High Desert ATM thefts may call sheriff's Detective Dave Burgess, (760) 240-7000.
Thieves using ATM card skimmers have stolen money from at least 90 people in the High Desert during the past several weeks, sheriff's officials said.
San Bernardino County sheriff's deputies suspect accounts at Desert Community Bank, Alaska Federal Credit Union and Arrowhead Credit Union have been compromised due to the scheme.
Deputies have noticed a spike in thefts involving the fraudulent use of ATM cards in Apple Valley, Hesperia, Victorville and other areas of the High Desert. Investigators discovered thieves are using a card-skimming device placed on the outside of an ATM. The device captures information from the card's magnetic strip. They also used binoculars or video cameras to watch people enter their personal identification number or PIN.
The thieves then created clone cards to withdraw money from San Bernardino banks.
Deputies suggest the following tips:
- Inspect ATMs for unusual devices. If you are not sure if the device is legitimate, don't use it and report it to your bank.
- Cover your typing hand with your other hand while entering your PIN.
- Check your account balance and bank statements frequently. Report any suspicious activity on your account to your bank.
Anyone who may have been victimized in the High Desert ATM thefts may call sheriff's Detective Dave Burgess, (760) 240-7000.
Comment