Current Alerts

ATM Skimming: What It Is, How to Protect Yourself

According to a study by the Federal Reserve, the number of debit card payments is increasing more than any other payment type. Even with its increased use, debit cards remain one of the safest financial instruments you can use. The Federal Reserve study also reports that among cards, PIN debit card transactions (including both purchases and ATM withdrawals) have the lowest estimated fraud rate by both number and value*.

However, that doesn’t mean your PIN debit card is completely immune to fraud. ATM skimming is one creative way criminals can take advantage of your debit card. Skimming is where criminals install devices, such as a camera or card reader, on ATMs or retailers’ point-of-sales machines to “skim” (or collect) information from your card, such as your PIN, to use fraudulently.
 

Banks Help Protect Consumers

Banks take a number of preventative measures to help protect consumers from ATM skimming and other types of fraud, including:
        • Installing surveillance cameras and increased lighting at ATMs
        • Monitoring accounts for indications of suspicious activity
        • Blocking and re-issuing cards for account holders who may be affected by fraud

In case fraud still occurs, the Electronic Funds Transfer Act provides protection against unauthorized fraud losses. Unauthorized transactions are typically refunded back to the consumer by your bank if you notify the bank as soon as you become aware of the unauthorized transaction(s).
 

You Also Can Help Protect Yourself

As a consumer, there are a number of actions you can take to help protect yourself, such as:

• Be wary of your surroundings and of other people who may be near when using an ATM.     Shield the keypad with your hand when entering your PIN. Also, be cautious of anyone who  offers to “help” you, especially if an ATM “eats” your card. They may be trying to steal your card number and PIN.
• Look for anything unusual that might indicate tampering with the ATM. For instance, if the ATM has a discolored card reader or unresponsive keypad – do not use the machine and report it to the bank. Never force your card into a card slot.
• Keep copies of your receipts to check against your statements regularly. Check your balances as soon as possible if you suspect your card may have been compromised. Report any unusual activity immediately by calling the toll-free number on the back of your card or contacting your bank.

As always, if you have questions or concerns about your debit card or potential fraud with your card, contact Farmers Savings Bank at 641-752-2525 or outside regular banking hours, contact Shazam at 1-800-383-8000.

*2013 Federal Reserve Payments Study (most recent data available)

Shazam Phone Calls

Your accounts are monitored for debit card fraud.  We help prevent fraud by regularly reviewing your accounts for unusual debit card activity.  If suspicious debit card transactions are identified, it is possible that you may get a call, on our behalf, from Shazam to alert you to these transactions.  However, Shazam representatives will never request any confidential information about you or your account.  If you receive a phone call where someone is requesting your personal information, account number, etc., DO NOT give it to them.  If you are uncomfortable about speaking with the representative about your account activity, please call the bank as soon as possible.  Thank you!

Contacting Shazam Directly

If your ATM or debit card has been lost or stolen, or if you have detected fraudulent card activity on your account, contact Farmers Savings Bank immediately during regular business hours at 641-752-2525.  Outside normal hours you should call Shazam directly at 1-800-383-8000.