Police seek help to catch ATM skimmer suspects
Raleigh police are asking for assistance in identifying suspects in an alleged operation that skims data off the magnetic strips on ATM cards.
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Skimming devices record data from the magnetic strips on the back of financial cards, police said.
Criminals have been placing them on automated teller machines to collect data to create counterfeit cards. They combine the data with hidden-camera video of PIN entry to use the new, fake cards to withdraw cash and make purchases.
Police released two photos of people thought to be responsible for placing a skimmer on an ATM at 611 E. Six Forks Road.
Anyone who recognizes the suspects is asked to call the Raleigh Police Department at 919-996-3555 or Raleigh Crime Stoppers at 919-834-4357. Crime Stoppers pays cash rewards for anonymous tips that help solve cases.
Police offered these tips to ATM users for avoiding skimmers.
- Closely examine ATM card slots to make sure nothing appears to be attached to the front of them.
- Do not use an ATM if the card reader appears to be added on, to fit poorly or to be loose.
- Avoid device instructions that say things like "Swipe Here First" or “Use This Machine Only.”
- If something does not look right, use another ATM.
- Always cover the ATM keypad as you're entering your PIN in case a hidden camera is nearby.
- Never accept "help" from anybody at an ATM machine.
- Immediately call the customer service number on the ATM if a machine keeps your card, appears suspicious or does not function properly.
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