A journalist in Delhi has become the latest victim of an ATM scam, highlighting the common techniques used by fraudsters. Apoorva Singh, who was using an ATM at South Indian Bank's Mayur Vihar Phase 1 branch, fell victim to the scam when her debit card got stuck in the machine.
In a series of tweets, Singh explained how he noticed the phone number displayed near the ATM. Believing she was a customer service contact, she dialed the number and spoke to someone posing as a bank employee. This „agent“ then manipulated Singh through a series of steps, ultimately compromising the security of her card.
“#ATMFraud occurred at South Indian Bank in Mayur Vihar Phase 1 on March 31st. My card got stuck while trying to use the ATM. Someone outside noticed the number written on the wall. It claimed to be an agency contact (9643935842),” the journalist said in a tweet.
After receiving instructions from the person, Apoorva dialed the number provided and was advised by an „agent“ to remotely switch off the ATM and remove her card when an „out of range“ message appeared. Ta. Even though I followed these steps, I still couldn't get my debit card.
The „agent“ then promised that an engineer would fix the problem the next day. However, Apoorva later discovered that there had been unauthorized withdrawals from her bank account.
„When I returned to the ATM, (my) card was gone and so were my funds,“ Apoorva wrote.
Aproova was also troubled by the absence of a security guard at the ATM facility and the presence of a misleading contact number in the ATM room that appeared to belong to an attendant. Unfortunately for her, when she contacted South Indian Bank, the authorities directed her to contact her home country bank, avoiding her responsibility.
Mayur Vihar's Pandav Nagar police station has officially filed a complaint in this regard and is currently conducting further investigation into the incident.
How to protect yourself from scams like this:
Never trust the numbers displayed. Bank ATMs do not have customer service numbers. If your card is stuck, please contact your bank directly using the verified phone number listed on the back of your card or on the official website.
Your PIN is confidential: Never share your PIN with anyone, including anyone claiming to be a bank representative.
Please pay attention to the instructions: If someone asks you to do something unusual at an ATM, such as pressing a certain button, say no and contact your bank for assistance.
What to do if you get scammed:
Please report the incident immediately. Contact your bank and let them know about the fraudulent activity. You can block the card and recover stolen funds.
File a complaint with the police. Report ATM fraud to the police to initiate a formal investigation.