Lookout for ATM Skimmers

Card skimmers being used at ATMs everywhere and it’s important for all of our customers to know how to protect themselves at any ATM.

How card skimmers work

Also known as ATM skimmers, these small devices fit over an ATM’s existing card reader. The device can gather your credit or debit card information when you place your card into the ATM. In combination with a hidden camera or a fake keypad laid over the existing one, thieves can also collect your PIN, allowing them to either create and use cloned cards or to hack your bank account directly.

How to be vigilant at the ATM

Whenever you use an ATM, keep an eye out for anything unusual. These things can all be potential signs of an ATM skimmer in use:

• A loose card reader that wiggles if you try to move it
• A keypad that seems loose, or too thick
• Anything that looks like a small camera — it’s always a good idea to cover your hand when you enter your PIN, just in case.
  

Be especially vigilant on weekends. Thieves often install skimmers for weekend use, when it’s harder for you to report fraudulent activity on your account.

Report Suspicious Activity to Horizon

If you attempt to use a Horizon Bank ATM that you suspect may have a card skimmer, please report it to us by calling 888-873-2640. And be sure to keep an eye on your account activity as well so you can report fraudulent transactions as quickly as possible.

Horizon Bank is continually monitoring for potentially fraudulent transactions as well, and you can rest assured we’re doing all we can to prevent theft.