Thefts of credit and debit card information from ATM users is on the rise in Middlesex County, the county prosecutor warned. Watch video
Middlesex County Prosecutor Andrew Carey warned theft of information card information on rise from ATMs. NEW BRUNSWICK -- Getting cash from an automated teller machine has become more risky in Middlesex County and throughout the state in recent months, according to Middlesex County Prosecutor Andrew Carey.
Carey issued a warning Monday that the theft of debit or credit card numbers at ATMs has been on the rise in recent months, noting the best defense for ATM users is to place one hand over the ATM to prevent thieves from being able to view ATM customers' personal identification numbers.
He said that by installing tiny cameras, known as "skimmers," over the card-reading camera of legitimate ATMs, thieves have been able to secretly record credit and debit card numbers and users' PINs.
Recording those numbers enable the thieves to create new cards and potentially steal thousands of dollars from users' accounts.
Carey said there have been 20 ATM thefts reported in Middlesex County since December.
The prosecutor said in addition to blocking outsiders' views of the ATM keyboards, individuals are also advised to avoid unfamiliar ATMs and refrain from using ATMs that are not well supervised, such as those located in the rear of convenience stores, or ATMs with sidewalk access outside of banks.
He said locations outside the view of a store clerk, for example, allow thieves to install their skimmer equipment undetected.
Carey also warned ATM users to avoid paying for gasoline with credit cards since skimmers have been placed at gas pumps and could remain undetected by gas station employees and customers.
Users who want to pay with a credit card are advised to swipe the card quickly, and not leave it in the pump while vehicles are being filled with gas, the prosecutor said.
Carey said those using an ATM in an unfamiliar location may consider examining the card-reading camera at the top of the machine before beginning a transaction.
They are also advised to immediately contact their local police upon finding any evidence of tampering.
Those who realize their card information has been stolen should alert their banks and credit card companies immediately, cancel the card, request a new one, and flag the stolen card to prevent further thefts, Carey said.
He said victims may also go online and conduct a free credit check using Experian, Equifax and TransUnion. Customers are entitled to have a free credit check with these companies once a year.
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