Kolkata – A shocking ATM scam has surfaced in Kolkata, leaving several government bank customers in distress after losing significant sums of money. The fraud took place at an ATM near Kishor Bharati Stadium, linked to the country’s largest state-owned bank. Reports suggest that unsuspecting users found their cards stuck in the machine, only to receive SMS alerts shortly after indicating large withdrawals from their accounts. While some victims lost amounts ranging from ₹25,000 to ₹30,000, others have reportedly been duped of lakhs.
How the Scam Works
The affected ATM, a card-swallowing model, has become a hotspot for fraudulent activities. Unlike modern ATMs that retain only the chip while ejecting the card, this outdated version fully captures the card, making it susceptible to manipulation by fraudsters. Criminals reportedly install a micro-camera inside a box placed under the card slot, capturing the card details and PIN of unsuspecting users. Once the user leaves the ATM, scammers misuse the card details to withdraw money either online or by re-entering the ATM.
Additionally, fraudsters have resorted to tampering with helpline numbers displayed on the ATM by placing misleading stickers. Victims who call these altered numbers often receive deceptive instructions, further aiding the scammers in carrying out their crime.
Customers in Panic as ATM Sealed
In response to the alarming fraud, the ATM has been sealed, and authorities have shut down its services. However, panic has already gripped regular customers, who now fear for the safety of their transactions at similar machines. The Survey Park Police Station has launched an investigation into the matter, aiming to trace the culprits behind this sophisticated scam.
Expert’s Take: A Highly Technical Fraud
Banking expert Soumya Dutta, speaking to 24Gantan, described the scam as a “very clever and technical fraud,” emphasizing that such high-tech ATM scams are on the rise. He urged banks to upgrade their ATMs to more secure models and stressed the importance of stationing security guards at vulnerable ATMs.
How to Protect Yourself from ATM Scams
Customers are advised to follow these essential safety measures to avoid falling victim to such fraud:
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Stay at the ATM:
If your card gets stuck in an ATM, do not leave the area. Immediately call the local police and wait until authorities arrive.
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Contact Your Bank:
Call your bank’s official customer service number or visit the nearest branch to report the incident.
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Block Your Card:
Request the bank to cancel the compromised card and issue a new one.
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Monitor Transactions:
Keep an eye on SMS alerts and immediately report any unauthorized withdrawals.
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Avoid Old-Model ATMs:
Try to use ATMs with modern chip-insertion technology that does not swallow the entire card.
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Beware of Fake Helpline Numbers:
Always verify helpline numbers directly from the bank’s official website.
Authorities Urged to Take Action
With ATM scams becoming increasingly sophisticated, banking authorities are being urged to tighten security measures and phase out outdated machines. The latest incident highlights the growing need for customer awareness and strict banking regulations to prevent such fraudulent activities.
For now, customers in Kolkata and beyond must exercise extreme caution while using ATMs, ensuring their hard-earned money remains safe from cybercriminals lurking in the shadows.
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