ATM Attacks on the Rise

November 13, 2023

Skimming, vandalism, and physical attacks on the ATM, armor/cash-in-transit (CIT) and ATM technicians are all on the rise throughout the U.S.

To criminals, an ATM presents an open environment with multiple escape routes, and they’re adept at making it appear as if they’re conducting business as usual. But in reality, they are placing devices on the ATM to capture card and pin data, according to Joe Woods, Senior Vice President of Marketing and Partnerships at GoWest Solutions partner Dolphin Debit Access.

Some sources claim these attacks on ATMs and personnel have increased 50% over the past three years. It is clearly a severe problem. While we cannot control or prevent every attack, we can all work together to help reduce these threats.

Here’s a short list to put into action immediately for your ATM fleet:

1. If branch staff are loading external ATMs (or ATMs not loaded from inside the branch), vary the day of the week and time of day they head to it. Keeping a consistent load cycle makes staff an easy target.
2. If you’re concerned about staff loading your external ATMs, contact the armor/CIT currently providing your branch cash and ask for pricing and the documents for ATM replenishment. Even if you don’t make the change immediately, having the necessary pricing and paperwork can enable a faster transition when needed.
3. Branch staff should check the ATM a minimum of twice a day for skimming devices. Although not all skim devices are detectable, many of them are. They should inspect the card reader and pin pad for tampering or any noticeable changes. Ask them to grab the card reader and wiggle it — it shouldn’t move. If it shifts or moves, it could be a skim device on top of the original reader. Also, inspect for glue or tape around the edge of the reader. Many skim devices are put on with the intent of removing them quickly after a period of time, so they are not going to be bolted or adhered tightly to the ATM fascia.
4. Branch staff should schedule visits to the ATM on the way into the office and the way out at the end of the day. They can also visit around lunchtime.

While nothing is foolproof, these steps can help protect your ATM, your staff, and your cardholder data.

For more insight or information regarding ATM functionality or ITMs and their role in branch transformation, speak to your GoWest Solutions Team representative.

Posted in GoWest Solutions, Top Headlines.