United Kingdom: ATM Fraud in London a Growing Problem

By Larry Habegger | Permalink | No Comments | April 25th, 2007 | Trackback

ATM fraud in London is a growing problem, both with skimming technology and various scams perpetrated by thieves. Travelers should avoid isolated ATMs or any ATM that looks unusual or appears to have a device attached to it. Scams that have been used in Central London are usually crimes of distraction that occur after the victim has entered a PIN. Sometimes thieves approach offering free newspapers, then quickly withdraw money and flee. Sometimes they point to a bill on the ground telling the victim that he’s dropped some money. When he bends down to pick it up an accomplice withdraws cash. Another scam is to tap the victim on the shoulder and whisper quietly when he turns. As he leans toward the whisperer, the accomplice helps himself to a withdrawal. Sometimes small children are employed in a charity collection ruse, waving a paper in front of the victim asking for a donation while an accomplice withdraws money from the ATM out of view behind the paper. The best way to avoid becoming a victim is to cancel your transaction immediately and remove your card if anyone talks to you while you’re doing your banking.

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