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Protect Your Identity
Protection Power members are safeguarded against the growing threat of Identity Theft
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Learning Centre
A wealth of up-to-date identity theft information, tips and other resources to keep you safe
Skimmers are devices placed over ATM card slots or the point-of-purchase machines you find on gas pumps, in stores or at movie theatres.
Skimmers copy and transmit card information from your magnetic stripe to waiting criminals. Many times, tiny pinhole cameras are also installed on the machines to record as you type in your PIN. Both can be difficult to spot, unless you know what you're looking for.
Skimmers are remarkably prevalent and cost Canadian consumers and banks millions of dollars every year.
To see what card skimmers may look like, watch this news story from Calgary.
Tips for avoiding skimmers:
- When possible, use the same bank machine. This will make it easier to spot suspicious devices.
- Before swiping or inserting your card, look at the machine carefully. If anything seems unusual, don't do it!
- It's harder for thieves to install and retrieve skimmers from busy areas and those monitored by surveillance camera. Choose ATMs located in these places.
- Try to use cash when possible, especially for small purchases.
- When paying in a restaurant or retail store, never let your card out of sight.
- Cover your hand when typing in your PIN. This makes it difficult for tiny cameras – or people standing behind you – to record your password.
Remember: hold on to your receipts and check your accounts regularly for unusual charges or fees. And add an extra layer of protection with proactive identity monitoring to identify misuse of your information, quickly! Read more.
