MANILA, Philippines?The influential Bankers Association of the Philippines has issued a reminder to users of automated teller machines (ATMs) to take added security precautions to avoid becoming victims of fraud.

Scammers worldwide have become more daring and ingenious. The BAP?s new call for added vigilance was triggered by a recent case of ATM fraud in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) which involved capturing the cardholder?s personal identification number (PIN) and other relevant information with the use of a specialized scanner. The captured information is then copied to produce a duplicate ATM card, allowing the scammers to make unauthorized withdrawals.

To avoid being victimized by fraud, BAP advised users to adhere to the following safety guidelines when using the ATM:

1. Never divulge your PINs to other persons. Change PINs if you think your PINs have been compromised.

2. Cover the ATM keypad when entering your PIN. In case there is a hidden camera attached to the machine, covering the keypad with your other hand while entering the numbers could prevent the capture of your PIN.

3. Cover the screen while using the ATM. Ensure that the ATM screen is not seen by other people while you are making your transaction.

4. Use only ATMs that are well-lit and located in secured areas.

5. Do not use ATMs that appear to have tampered card or cash slots. Report anything that seems suspicious to the corresponding bank immediately.

6. Be aware of your surroundings when using the ATM. Look around to check for suspicious characters lurking around the vicinity. Make sure that the person next in line to use the ATM is keeping a safe distance from you.

7. Do not entertain strangers who attempt to engage you in a conversation or pretend to offer help while you are transacting in an ATM. This person may just be after your PIN and card number.

The BAP has also issued an advisory to member banks to remind branch officers, employees and security guards to regularly inspect ATMs and booths for any unusual and non-bank installed devices, such as hidden cameras, cloning devices and glued traps.

Bankers were also urged to instruct their security guards to maintain alertness and closely observe suspicious individuals within bank premises, particularly around ATM booths.

For assistance, ATM depositors are advised to immediately contact ATM hotline numbers, which are normally posted on ATM machines.