Apex police trying to ID ATM skimmer suspects
APEX (WTVD) -- Authorities in Apex are trying to identify three women who were seen placing a bank card skimmer on an ATM this week.
The suspects were seen on video at a SunTrust ATM on April 26 and 27.
Police said the skimmers were later discovered during a daily check of the ATM machine by a Sun Trust employee.
"I know the manager is very cautious about checking the ATM daily and I think the girls .. their pictures are out and I think they're going to pay a much worse price than whatever money they took from the bank," bank customer Steve West said.
"Right now, we haven't gotten any reports that they were able to obtain anybody's information," Apex Police Department Captain Ann Stephens said. "You can go to the ATM machine, just tug a little bit where your card goes in. They're only on with double-sided tape so if something pops off real easy go inside immediately and report it to the bank."
If you have any information about the identity of the suspects, you are asked to contact the Apex Police Department at (919)362-8661 or send an anonymous tip to TIP411 using keyword ApexPD.
Authorities say when using an ATM machine, you should:
- Inspect the door access device prior to opening the lobby doors (Most counterfeit devices are installed with double sided tape and are installed over the original door access device).
- Use a different card to open the lobby doors (Most door access devices will open with many different cards that have magnetic stripes gift cards, store cards, credit cards, etc. all work to open the door.)
- Inspect the machine for items that were installed over or around the PIN pad of the ATM. Look for a small pinhole pointing toward the keypad.
- Cover the keypad with your other hand while typing your PIN.
A spokesperson with SunTrust gave ABC11 the following statement:
When we detect a skimming device or become aware of fraudulent activity stemming from a skimming device, we determine users of the machine who might be at risk. We proactively reach out to those who may have been affected, and monitor and work to protect their accounts including reissuing new cards and reimbursing them for fraudulent transactions.
It's important to note that this is an industry wide issue, not one unique to our company. It highlights why it's important for people to pay close attention and monitor their accounts no matter where they bank. If someone sees suspicious activity on their account, they should alert their financial institution as soon as they are aware of it.
