Q: A group of us was discussing ATMS the other night, and it seemed we all had different ideas about how scams happen and how to protect against them. Do you have suggestions? A: When using an ATM you need to be alert to a number of things to prevent theft. First, be alert to the machine itself. Does it appear to have something added to it, or do wires extend from it that don’t appear to belong? Does it have a sign saying it is out of order and directing the user to another machine? If something appears out of line, don’t use the ATM. Next, be alert to the location. Some locations are less desirable than others. If the location or foot and car traffic makes you nervous, don’t use the ATM. To obtain the vital information from your transaction, the ATM thief needs the data embedded in the card’s magnetic strip and your personal identification number. To get the card data, the thief adds a device to the ATM that will capture it as a card is swiped. To get a PIN, thieves use a hidden camera to record it as you key it into the ATM. The thieves then burn these two pieces of information onto a blank card and use the card to access your account. To protect yourself against ATM theft, you should do four things each time you use an ATM. – As you key your PIN into the ATM, shield your hand to protect it from roaming eyes and hidden cameras. – Use familiar ATMs. Those in dimly lighted spots could be more susceptible to fraud. Also, limit your visits to the ATM. Frequency adds risk. Daylight visits are usually safer than night ones. – Make sure the card slot on the ATM is legitimate and not tacked on. If insertion of the card doesn’t feel normal, try another ATM. – Check your bank balance frequently. If you use a debit card, you have a two-day window for reporting fraud. If you don’t report debit card fraud in 60 days, you have unlimited liability. If using a credit card, you have more protection and can dispute unusual charges. You have at least one billing cycle to question those charges. Weigh convenience against safety. By using a bank teller, you reduce the chance of fraud. But if convenience wins out over safety, take these simple protection steps. HAPPENINGS Aug. 7: “Covered California — What Is It All About”; “Is Your Medicare Coverage Working For You”; and “Medicare Fraud Updates” seminars. 9:30-11 a.m.; Wilson Senior Center, 350 N. C St. in Oxnard. For information, call 477-7310. Aug. 8: “It’s Your Turn: Self-Care for the Caregiver” seminar. 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; Goebel Community Adult Center, 1385 E. Janss Road in Thousand Oaks. Senior Concerns President Andrea Gallagher will facilitate the seminar. To reserve your seat call 381-2744. Aug. 9: “Covered California — What Is It All About”; “Is Your Medicare Coverage Working For You”; and “Medicare Fraud Updates” seminars. 10:15-11:15 a.m.; South Oxnard Senior Center, 200 E. Bard Road in Oxnard. For information, call 477-7310. Aug. 14: “Will You Pass Your Next Driving Test?” seminar. 1:30-3 p.m.; Moorpark Active Adult Center, 799 Moorpark Ave. in Moorpark. For information and reservations, call 517-6261. Betty Berry is a senior advocate for Senior Concerns. The advocates are at the Goebel Community Adult Center, 1385 E. Janss Road, Thousand Oaks, CA 91362, or call 495-6250 or email betty@seniorconcerns.org . Please include your telephone number. More …
