Urgent warning! You're utilizing an ATM? See how not to lose money

In the digital age and the increasing number of cybercrimes, the usage of ATMs requires expanding care. Although for many of us the withdrawal of cash is simply a regular activity, not everyone is aware of the dangers that may happen to us. Security experts alarm that the number of ATM frauds in Poland increased by more than 2024 20%and 2025 could bring further challenges.

How do cheaters work? Latest methods of stealing money from your account

1. Skimming – copying card data
One of the most commonly utilized methods by criminals is the so-called. skiming. It involves installing a data copying device from the magnetic stripe of the card. usually the skimmer is mounted on the card reader's inlet and can be almost invisible to the user.

Data Police Headquarters, in 2024 Poland was reported above 500 cases of skimming, which represents an increase by 15% compared to the erstwhile year. ATMs in tiny towns and those located outside large institutions are peculiarly vulnerable.

2. Keyboard covers and PIN spy cameras
Criminals frequently usage ATM keypad caps that evidence entered PIN numbers. In combination with hidden cameras mounted above the screen, cheaters gain full access to our account.

3. Card trapping – card trap
This method involves placing a peculiar card blocker in the ATM. erstwhile the user leaves the ATM in search of help, cheaters remove the card and make unauthorized transactions.

How do you defend yourself? applicable Tips

1. Check the ATM before use
   Before inserting the card into the ATM, look closely at the device. Note the suspicious stickers on the card reader or keyboard. If there's anything you're not certain about, quit the deal.
2. Block keyboard erstwhile entering PIN
   Always usage the second hand to cover the keyboard erstwhile entering the PIN code. It's a simple but effective method of protection against spy cameras.
3. Avoid ATMs in isolated locations
   The biggest hazard of fraud occurs in ATMs located in dark, unorthodox places. usage devices located in banks, buying malls or another monitored locations.
4. Use mobile payments alternatively of cards
   In situations where possible, alternatively of paying cash, usage mobile payments or non-cash transactions. It's a much safer solution.
5. Monitor your bank account
   Regularly check your bank's transaction history. If suspicious operations are detected, study it to your bank and the police immediately.

Statistics: How much do we lose on ATM fraud?

According to the study National Bank of PolandIn 2024 Poles lost about PLN 25 million as a consequence of ATM fraud. The average amount of theft was PLN 1500, although there have been cases of failure of life savings.

The biggest threat was recorded in Mazowieckie, Silesian and Wielkopolska. Older people were peculiarly vulnerable, who frequently pay cash in a conventional way and usage alternate payment methods little often.

What do banks do to increase security?

In consequence to the expanding number of crimes, banks in Poland have introduced a number of actions to defend customers:

• Installation anti-skimming sensors in fresh ATMs.
• Introduction of cash withdrawal options utilizing BLISTERwhich eliminates the request for a payment card.
• Regular training of employees in fraud detection.
• Educational campaigns for customers to rise awareness of threats.

What if you fall victim to fraud?

If you fishy that your card has been copied or stolen:

1. Immediately reserve the card – you can do it in your bank or via a mobile app.
2. Call the police. – give details of the transaction and the ATM number in which the fraud was committed.
3. Contact the bank – file a complaint and ask for a refund under the chargeback procedure (if applicable).