Debit Card Skimming and Cloning: How to Protect Your Card


Debit Card Skimming and Cloning: How to Protect Your Card

Debit card skimming and cloning pose significant threats to your financial security. Keep reading for ways to keep your cards safe.

How Debit Card Skimming and Cloning Work

Scammers use devices called skimmers to capture your card details at ATMs or payment terminals. Scammers often place skimmers on top of, or inside of, original card readers. Then after you swipe your card, they can clone it to make fraudulent transactions. If you notice a device that looks different from a standard card reader, like a loose or bulky card slot, be careful: it could be an overlay skimmer. Scammers also use what’s called ‘deep insert skimmers,’ which are designed to be inserted into the card reader. Look closely at the ATM or payment terminal, and if you see a slim insert like a business card inside the card reader, don’t use it.
 

How to Protect Your Debit Card:

  1. Inspect ATMs: Check for loose or unusual attachments before you use ATMs. Also, look out for small pinhole cameras around ATM keypads, which could record your PIN.

  2. Cover your PIN: Shield the keypad when entering your PIN at payment terminals.

  3. Use secure ATMs: Use F&M Bank ATMs whenever possible.

  4. Use contactless card payments: If possible, use secure contactless payment methods like tap-to-pay with your card.

  5. Set up account notifications: Customized text, email and/or in-app messages help you stay up to date on important financial transactions and set spending limits.

  6. Review your accounts: Regularly reviewing your account statements and transaction history allows you to quickly report any unauthorized or suspicious activity immediately.

What to Do if You Suspect Debit Card Fraud:

  1. Report suspicious activity: If you ever suspect any fraudulent activity or encounter a potential scam, please contact us immediately or visit your nearest F&M Bank office. We’re here to support you.

  2. Temporarily suspend your debit card: Temporarily suspending your card prevents purchases, withdrawals or transfers. It’s an ideal way to secure your account for any reason.

  3. Report a lost or stolen debit card.

Thank you for taking the time to educate yourself on debit card safety. At F&M Bank, we’re committed to investing in the latest technology, tools and resources to help keep your finances safe and secure. That’s strength you can count on. For life.