A skimming device has been attached to at least two bank cash machines but no clients have been duped, The Sunday Times has learnt.
While this type of activity is relatively rare in Malta, it has been known to take place from time to time
Fraudsters have tried to steal client information by applying an illegal device to the HSBC cash machine in Balluta, a bank spokesman confirmed yesterday.
Bank of Valletta also said one of its bank machines had been targeted, but did not confirm claims on Facebook that it was the Paceville ATM.
The devices include a skimmer that is able to read credit or debit card details as customers slide their bank card through what they think is the bank’s identification system as they key in their personal identification number (PIN), which is relayed to criminals waiting to steal card details.
“While this type of activity is relatively rare in Malta, it has been known to take place from time to time. On each occasion when a device has been spotted, it has been removed and the appropriate authorities have been advised,” the HSBC spokesman said.
The Malta Bankers Association has been made aware of this illegal activity so that all banks in the market can be alerted.
The spokesman said HSBC Malta took the security of its client information very seriously and three years ago it was one of the first banks in Malta to install anti-skimming devices to tackle such illegal activity and protect its clients.
If a member of the public is concerned about suspicious activity around an ATM they should immediately advise the police, HSBC said.
Bank of Valletta said it also employed a variety of systems and devices including anti-skimming devices to protect card holders against credit fraud.
“What’s important is that the credit card holder is protected – and as long as he has not acted fraudulently or negligently – he will be fully refunded for any unauthorised transaction.
“With some knowledge and basic precautions you can use a BoV card for any payment in complete safety,” the BoV spokesman said.
Bank staff are instructed to inspect their ATMs each morning and before leaving.
The technology used in identity theft is constantly changing and becoming more high tech to try outdo the banks’ security precautions.
According to the FBI, the surreptitious equipment allows thieves to record customers’ account information and PINs, create their own bank cards to then withdraw from customer accounts.