Sticky ATM Keypad May Mean Trouble

Stuck Keypads Versus Skimmers

So if keypad buttons are stuck, see if you can complete your withdrawal using the touchscreen feature. If you can't, or cash doesn't dispense or your card is trapped inside after you've entered your PIN, try not to step away from the ATM. If you have a cellphone, take it out and call your bank from the ATM.

Despite low-tech tricks like these, electronic devices known as skimmers remain the go-to method for en masse ATM theft. Skimmers, which can be purchased online, are placed over the ATM's card slot to scan information encoded in the magnetic strip of debit cards.

The devices can capture data from hundreds of cards before scammers retrieve them and use the data to make duplicate debit cards. In the meantime, miniature spy cameras placed at the ATM have recorded the finger strokes of card owners entering PINs. The thieves now have all they need to make multiple cash withdrawals.

Even without a PIN, duplicated Visa or MasterCard debit cards can be used to make online purchases.

Check Lights, Wiggle Card Slot

Most ATMs have a flashing or steady light at the card slot. If you don't see that, it could indicate that a skimmer's been attached. (But keep in mind that some older ATMs don't have those lights.)

Another precaution is to wiggle the card slot before inserting your card. If it's not securely attached or has a different color from the rest of the ATM, use another machine. (And always cover the keypad as you enter your PIN, because a spy camera may be watching.)

Even if you're unaware of problems when you use an ATM, you should always carefully review your bank statements as soon as you get them to detect any fraudulent withdrawals, as skimming scams often go undetected until accounts are drained.

Banks usually reimburse customers of ATM scams, but policies vary and some banks might not pay up if you wait too long.