News

Since 1902, Grant County Bank has been committed to protecting the financial information of our customers in the communities we serve. One way of doing this is by keeping people in our communities educated about how to keep their financial information safe and why it is important.

In today’s digital age, protecting your financial information is more important than ever. One prevalent threat to financial security is card skimming. Card skimming is a type of fraud where criminals use small devices to steal credit or debit card information. To best protect your financial information, it’s important to understand how the scam works and recognize the signs to avoid becoming a victim.

Card skimming occurs when a small device, known as a skimmer, is attached to card readers usually at ATMs, gas pumps, and point-of-sale terminals when a lack of supervision occurs. Then, when your card is swiped, the skimmer captures the data stored including your name, card number, expiration date, and security (CVV) code. In some cases, there is also a microscopic camera or key logging device to capture additional information, such as the card’s personal identification number (PIN) or security code.

Detecting card skimming can be challenging, but there are a few telltale signs to watch out for:

• Unusual-looking card readers that include extra attachments or look bulky.
• Glue or adhesive marks surrounding the reader.
• Loose or wiggly parts that show signs of tampering.
• Tiny holes or suspicious objects near the keypad that could contain a camera.
• Unexpected outcomes or malfunctions when using the card reader or ATM.
• An unusual feeling keyboard.

The risks associated with card skimming are significant and extremely unfortunate. Some include:

1. Financial loss: Unauthorized transactions can quickly drain your bank account or max out your credit card.
2. Credit damage: Fraud activity can harm your credit score, making it difficult to obtain loans in the future.
3. Stolen personal information: This can lead to identity theft.

To avoid facing these risks, learn about a few steps you can take to protect your information. As skimming devices have become more sophisticated, it can be difficult to tell if a terminal has been tampered with, so it’s important also to take steps to prevent fraud, such as:

• Monitor your accounts regularly and check statements for any unauthorized transactions. Promptly report any suspicious activity to us here at The Grant County Bank or whoever you bank with.
• Before using an ATM, gas pump, or any card reader, take a moment to inspect the card reader. If anything looks suspicious, find another machine and report your suspicions to a worker immediately.
• When entering your PIN, use your other hand to cover the keypad. This simple step can prevent hidden cameras from capturing your PIN.
• Avoid suspicious or unfamiliar card terminals or ATMs whenever possible. Skimming devices need to be manually installed, so the fraudster is likely to target less visible and low-traffic locations.
• The Grant County Bank immediately alerts you of any suspicious activity, so be sure to enable these alerts to help quickly identify and respond to fraudulent activity.

Staying informed and proactive is key to safeguarding your finances from card skimming. By understanding what card skimming is, recognizing the signs, and taking preventive measures, you can significantly reduce your risk of falling victim to this type of fraud. It is very important to remember to regularly monitor your accounts, use secure ATMs, and always be vigilant when using your card. Protecting your financial information is an ongoing process, but easier to do with the right knowledge and good habits.

By staying up-to-date about card skimming and other fraudulent activity trends, you can ensure your banking safety and maintain your financial security in rural West Virginia and beyond. At The Grant County Bank, our customer’s safety is our number one priority, which is why we offer services like Kasasa Protect, an optional Identity Fraud Protection and Restoration Service that includes identity theft, fraud protection, and breach resolution through a separate, third party that can be added to your Kasasa Cash or Cash Back checking accounts. Additionally, customers enrolled in online banking with us can also take advantage of Notifi Alerts, a free service that notifies you as soon as there's activity in your account. Alerts include purchases made with your debit card, ATM withdrawals, checks clearing that exceed the set amount and more.