ATM Skimming Devices seized at NAIA

ABS-CBN reported early this morning that the Bureau of Customs on Monday had seized 571 card skimming devices from a checked-in baggage at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).

The bureau said the skimming devices were discovered in a checked-in baggage from a direct flight from Hong Kong. NAIA District Collector Edgar Macabeo issued a Warrant of Seizure and Detention (WSD) on the 571 skimming devices.
The BOC said the seized items include a pouch with 199 pieces of the device for One Time Password (OTP) and 38 SIM cards; a pouch with 173 pieces of the OTP device and 22 SIM cards; and a pouch with 199 pieces of OTP devices with 42 SIM cards.
The skimming devices enable someone to steal debit or credit card information and even the owner’s PIN and other personal information from a remote location.e owner of the skimming devices, a Hong Kong national, is now held by Customs police.
The suspect is facing charges in violation of Republic Act 8484 or the “Access Devices Regulation Act of 1998,” in relation to Sections 2505 or Failure to Declare Baggage, 2350F or Forfeiture and 3601 Unlawful Importation of the Tariff and Customs Code of the Philippines, as amended.

Samples of Skimming Devices

Card Skimming Device (left)

Keypad Skimming Device

There are many other Skimming Devices, like cameras and overlay keyboards to record your PIN code. There are also devices that retain the paid out bills.

What can you do?

As tourist you should only use ATMs inside banks and if possible only during operating hours. If this isn’t possible because you urgently need cash, look for a well lit place with a lot of people passing by. Then inspect the ATM. If something looks new or unusual, choose an other machine

As a local, a resident, try to use always the same ATMs. If something is new on or around the machine, ask the bank’s branch manager.

And, what else?

Limit the daily cash allowance of your ATM or credit card to a low maximum amount – just enough for your needs.
Use prepaid cash cards instead of credit cards. You always can refill them by e-banking. So you can reduce the loss in case of fraud.

[GARD]