ATM Skimming Increasing; Technology Fights Crime

Just this week, at least 600 individuals were potential victims of an ATM card skimming scheme in the Nashville area. About a tenth of those had fraudulent withdraws from their accounts for anywhere between $100 and $5,000. Police said the card skimmer goes over the normal card reader. A transaction can still be made and cash received, but the thieves then have the data to tap into individual accounts. Investigators said five Bank of America ATMs have been hit, as well as an unknown number of US Bank ATMs. Police said the problem is not isolated to Nashville. It is suggested that a sophisticated gang is moving through Midwest and Southern states.

Companies including ADT Security Services, NCR and Diebold offer technology to fight skimmers. ADT showed anti-skim gear at the ASIS International 2009 in Anaheim.