There are glue marks around the reader. There is tape sticking out from under the reader. The reader is skewed or hanging off to the side. A loose piece of plastic or equipment is sticking out from the reader.
If you see a small pinhole drilled into the ATM, be careful, as it could be a small camera. If you see something like a pack of cigarettes, book, deck of cards, or mug sitting on or near the ATM, move it aside to see if it is hiding a camera. Legitimate cameras installed by the bank are usually very noticeable. They may be large, and there may be a sign indicating where they are. Card skimmer cameras are usually very small or hidden.
Look for a small pinhole in the bar. If you see one, it likely contains a small camera. If it is attached to the light, be especially wary. Normally, there should nothing covering the ATM’s light. If you’re uncertain about a piece of equipment on the ATM, try wiggling it with your hand. If it budges or moves, it is likely a skimmer.
Look at the space under the card reader. If there are arrows, make sure that they are not covered partially. There should be a space between any arrows and the card reader itself. If the instructions next to the card reader are partially covered or cut off, it is likely that there is a plastic skimmer attached over them.
Unusual colors on your ATM, especially on the card reader itself. A card reader that juts out more than usual. Cracks around the receipt slot, speakers, audio jack, or cash dispenser. No flashing indicator where there was one before.
If you use an indoor ATM, check the location. If it is located somewhere an employee can see it easily, it is safer than an ATM stuck in a back corner or hidden by furniture. If you use an outdoor ATM, make sure it is close to the door of a building or facing a busy street.
To give you extra peace of mind, sign up for your bank’s fraud alert system. Usually your bank will text you if they notice suspicious activity.
