DON'T BECOME A VICTIM OF CARD 'SKIMMER'
THE Forfar public has been warned to be wary when withdrawing money from ATM machines.
Constable Ally Smith, Community Liaison Officer for Tayside Police, told members of Forfar Community Council that card fraud had been reported in Angus, although predominantly in the Arbroath area.
Addressing last Thursday's meeting about the possible threat of card "skimming", he said: "Enquiries are continuing at present, however Tayside Police would like to remind Angus residents to take the following steps to lessen the possibility of becoming a victim of this sort of crime.
"Wherever possible, always use the same ATM machine, and be very cautious if there are any changes, such as a new leaflet holder. If it's outside a bank (and these criminals will do that), go in and ask about the changes first."
The Police advice is to use a machine within the bank itself, although that's not always possible.
Watch out for anyone close by - if they seem too close, cancel the transaction and go to another machine.
Cover your hand as you enter your PIN by holding your other hand above it.
Always take your receipt. It doesn't contain your full number, but don't give criminals any information at all.
Check your account balance regularly. If you bank online, that's easily accomplished with a few keystrokes.
If you do become a victim, inform you bank immediately. They can help you change your numbers.
In most cases, negotiations will mean you're liable for funds taken or goods bought with the fake card.
The Police also advise you check your credit file. Your stolen cash card details can be an entry into identity theft.
Check the card reader before inserting your card. If you feel tiny prongs, then it's a false front - don't use it.
Contact Tayside Police on 0300 111 2222 if you become a victim.
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Weather for Kirriemuir
Wednesday 08 February 2012
Today
Cloudy
Temperature: -0 C to 1 C
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