Article Contributed on: 5/1/2009 4:04:10 PM
Westminster Police are working with the Secret Service and First Bank to learn more about a skimming device that was placed on an ATM at the 94th Avenue and Sheridan Boulevard branch.
The ATM was serviced on March 22nd and on April 23rd a suspicious device was found on the ground next to the ATM. Police have determined the suspicious mechanism to be a self-contained ATM skimming device. These devices read the magnetic strip on an ATM, debit or credit card as it is inserted into the ATM. Suspects will then use the information collected to produce counterfeit cards, and steal an individual's identity and financial account information.
It has not been determined what level of information this skimming device is capable of recording. The device has been sent to a laboratory for further examination.
Westminster Police detectives and the Secret Service believe this is the first time a skimming device like this has been found in the metro area. Police want to remind citizens to be careful when using ATM's and to check the machine for anything that is suspicious or appears to be attached to the outside of the machine. If you are unsure if an ATM has been tampered with, report it to the bank immediately and do not use the ATM. Other skimming devices can be inserted into the card reader, and keep your card after it is drawn into the ATM. If your card is kept by the ATM, notify the bank immediately and report it to your local police department.
Attached below is an image of the ATM card reader as it should appear and one with the skimming device attached. Not every ATM will appear exactly as the ones pictured.