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ATM skimming copies card data, usually from the magnetic stripe, using a device placed over or inside the card reader. A hidden camera or false keypad may separately capture the PIN. Banks sometimes spot skimmers quickly, but detection is not guaranteed—and a normal-looking ATM is not proof that it is safe.
How ATM skimming works
A physical skimmer reads and stores the information on a card’s magnetic stripe as it is inserted or swiped. To make that data useful for unauthorized withdrawals, criminals may also capture the PIN with a concealed camera aimed at the keypad or a false keypad placed over it. They can then use the stolen details to make a counterfeit card. A customer’s withdrawal may appear entirely ordinary while the data is being copied. The FBI describes the basic scheme in its ATM skimming overview and consumer guidance.
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Skimming is not the same as every attack involving an ATM. Europol distinguishes physical card-reader skimmers from software attacks, including malware that captures card data, jackpotting attacks that make an ATM dispense cash, and black-box attacks that use an external device to control cash dispensing. Those attacks target ATM systems or cash handling rather than simply copying a card at an altered reader. See Europol’s payment-fraud overview.
Can banks detect ATM skimmers?
Sometimes, but there is no basis for assuming every bank will find every device or detect it before a customer is affected. In one FBI case account, some banks noticed devices promptly, while other customers’ accounts were drained. That example shows that detection can happen; it does not establish how reliably banks generally detect skimmers or which signals every bank monitors. The FBI’s case account is an example, not a measure of system-wide performance.
#1 Best Overall
- Pocket sized security solution - no hardware installations or modifications required
- Detects deep insert and overlay skimmers hidden inside ATMs & fuel dispensers
- Works in ATMs, fuel pumps, kiosks, vending machines, smart parking meters & card readers
- Simple operation with bright LED and audible alert
- Made entirely in the USA
Europol’s 2016 assessment notes that deep-insert skimmers can evade standard protections and detection measures and may be invisible to ATM users. A device can therefore be difficult to detect from the outside, even if the ATM appears intact. The report is available in Europol’s Internet Organised Crime Threat Assessment 2016.
How to check an ATM before using it
Look at the card reader and keypad before inserting your card. The FBI advises watching for parts that are loose, crooked, damaged or scratched. If something looks unusual, use a different machine and alert the ATM operator or your bank. A quick inspection can catch some visible tampering, but it cannot rule out a concealed or deep-insert skimmer.
Rank #2
- Kit includes everything you need to detect deep-insert and overlay card skimmers
- Includes protective holsters for each skimmer detector and rugged transport case for everything
- Works in ATMs, fuel pumps, kiosks, vending machines, smart parking meters & card readers
- Made entirely in the USA
- Supports card swipers, ATMs, self-checkout terminals and gas pumps
- Use a well-lit, indoor ATM when practical. Location may help you make a safer choice, but it does not guarantee the machine is secure.
- Cover the keypad with your other hand while entering your PIN. This can obstruct a camera’s view, though it cannot protect against every form of keypad tampering.
- Choose a chip transaction when the ATM offers one. Chip use improves protection during that transaction, but a chip card’s magnetic stripe remains vulnerable if it is used instead. The FBI discusses this distinction in its guidance on chip cards and magnetic-stripe risk.
The FBI’s consumer recommendations, including inspection and PIN shielding, are collected on its skimming guidance page.
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What to do if something seems wrong
- Stop using the ATM. If a reader or keypad looks altered, do not insert your card or enter your PIN. Choose another machine and report the concern to the operator or your bank.
- Contact your card issuer promptly. Call the number on your card or use the issuer’s official app or website if the ATM retains your card or you notice an unauthorized transaction. Ask about securing the account and replacing the card.
- Review recent account activity. Check transactions and turn on bank alerts if they are available. Report any unfamiliar withdrawal or payment to the issuer as soon as possible.
- Report suspected skimming to the FBI. The FBI directs skimming reports to the Internet Crime Complaint Center; reporting to your bank is still important for protecting your account.
The FBI’s consumer guidance recommends monitoring accounts and contacting the issuer about suspicious activity or a retained card.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- ELECTRONIC PINPOINTING: Precisely locate targets and speed up recovery for more efficient detecting.
- FIVE SEARCH MODES: Choose from All Metal, Jewelry, Custom, Relics, and Coins for versatile treasure hunting.
- ACCEPT/REJECT DISCRIMINATION: Customize discrimination patterns to focus on desired targets.
- COIN DEPTH INDICATOR: Continuous depth reading helps determine how deep a target is buried.
- USER-FRIENDLY DESIGN: Large LCD, push-button controls, battery life indicator, and adjustable arm cuff for comfort.
Rank #4
- COMPATIBILITY: Works with multiple credit card terminal models including VeriFone MX 915/925, Ingenico Lane 3000/5000/7000, and PAX PX7 terminals
- QUICK DETECTION: Takes only seconds to verify if credit card terminals are free from unauthorized skimming devices
- SECURITY TOOL: Helps protect payment systems by identifying potential tampering or foreign objects on card readers
- EASY TO USE: Simple physical verification process requires no technical expertise or special training
- VERSATILE DESIGN: Available in different models to accommodate various terminal types including MX900 and M400 series
Rank #3
- Pocket-sized security solution – no hardware installations or modifications required
- Instantly detect credit and debit card skimmers hidden inside swiping POS retail terminals
- Works in swiping retail POS terminals, ATMs, fuel pumps, kiosks, vending machines & smart meters
- Saves time & money making it the tool of choice for retail managers and law enforcement
- Much more affordable than upgrading terminals to expensive EMV chip readers
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