Debit Card Skimming
Debit cards are one of the most convenient ways to make transactions. It is easy to carry around and safe to use. Although debit cards are widely used, they are still not immune to fraud. One such fraud people need to look out for is skimming. Skimming is an illegal practice used by thieves to capture the personal card details of a credit card holder.
The details can be stolen in many ways, but mostly, it is done by using a device called a ‘skimmer’. It is a small device that can be installed on a debit card to read information. In this way, fraudsters can easily get sensitive information regarding a debit card.
How Does Skimming Work?
There are numerous ways in which scammers steal your personal information through skimming. Generally, scammers attach skimming devices to ATMs or POS (Point of Sale) machines to collect the cardholder's information. When the cardholder swipes their card, all information, including the debit card number, PIN, full name, and expiration date, will be collected by them. The information obtained will be used for identity theft and to make fraudulent transactions, as they retrieve more than just your debit card details. They also collect personal information such as name, address, phone number, and Aadhaar number, etc.
Types of Skimming
Physical Skimming
Skimming attacks are generally classified into two categories. The type of attack where skimming devices are attached to ATMs or POS machines is called ‘physical skimming’. When people swipe their debit cards through the skimmed POS machine at shops, they can come under a physical skimming attack.
ATMs are also prone to this type of skimming. Skimming devices will be attached to ATMs, and when people insert their debit cards to withdraw money, scammers can easily collect information. In ATMs, the devices are usually placed near the magnetic swipe reader or the card slot.
Digital Skimming
Digital skimming, or e-skimming, refers to skimming attacks through online methods. This can be scammers sending phishing messages and emails to a debit card holder and introducing malware to their devices to steal information. Scammers attach malware to online stores and e-commerce websites to collect card and payment data of those who purchase online. When the users enter their card details in checkout forms to make payments, the malware copies it. Compared to physical skimming, digital skimming is harder to detect, thus making it more damaging.
How to Prevent Skimming Attacks?
In this age where transactions and purchases are mostly conducted digitally, it is necessary to be aware of scams and frauds that can cause huge financial losses. With scams evolving rapidly, it is of utmost importance for people to stay vigilant. Listed below are the things to look out for to protect oneself from skimming attacks.
- Inspect the ATM/POS machine: Before making any transactions, check whether there is anything irregular about the machine. Make sure they are not tampered with in any way before inserting your card.
- Check the Keypad: If the keys are not working properly or are hard to press, this could be a false keypad.
- Block the keypad while typing PIN: Covering the keypad while typing PIN can help prevent hidden cameras from recording.
- Do not use non-bank ATMs: It is safer to use bank-owned ATMs, as privately owned ATMs are highly susceptible to skimming fraud.
- Check bank account details regularly: It is essential to monitor your bank account details regularly so that it is easier to spot any unusual activities when they happen. Also, you can enable real-time transaction alerts.
- Keep your card in sight: Always keep the card in sight, and it should not be taken away in any circumstances.
FAQs
- How do I know if an ATM is tampered with?
To know if an ATM is tampered with, inspect the machine and see if there is anything unusual, like a loose or damaged card reader.
- Is it safe to use POS machines in shops?
Yes, it is safe to use POS machines for transactions, but make sure they are not skimmed by inspecting the machine.
- What information can be stolen from a debit card through skimming?
Scammers generally steal the cardholder’s name, PIN, card number, expiration date, and security code through skimming from a debit card.
- What to do if I suspect an ATM/POS machine is skimmed?
If you suspect an ATM/POS machine is skimmed, you can immediately report the issue to your bank or the authorities.
- How to prevent digital skimming?
To prevent digital skimming, always use secure online shopping sites, and when making payments, ensure you use trusted and PCI DSS (Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard) compliant payment gateways.
Disclaimer
Credit Card:
Credit Score:
Personal Loan:
Home Loan:
Fixed Deposit:
Copyright © 2026 BankBazaar.com.