What is Card Skimming and How You Can Protect Yourself

Keep Your Card Information Safe

Fraudsters can attach skimming devices to ATMs or other payment terminals to illegally collect data when a card is swiped or inserted and use it steal from your accounts. As a Wescom member, know that the security, privacy, and confidentiality of your personal information is among our highest priorities. All of our Wescom ATMs undergo daily physical inspections to mitigate skimming. In addition, Wescom has fraud monitoring in place to alert us of the misuse of your card.

Here are some tips you can follow to help protect yourself from skimming.

• Inspect the ATM before using — look for loose, cracked or crooked pieces, or potential damage to the card reader such as scratches or peeled stickers.
• Check the PIN pad to make sure it is stable and attached to the machine.
• Cover your hand when entering your PIN to prevent cameras from capturing what you press.
• Use ATMs in well-lit, exposed areas.
• When using an indoor ATM, use those that are within view of a store clerk, when possible.
• Monitor your accounts frequently — if you see any unfamiliar charges, report it to Wescom right away at 1-888-4WESCOM (1-888-493-7266).

We also encourage you to sign up for Wescom's free Account Alerts to notify you via text or email about activity on your account.* To report unknown activity or fraud or learn more about payment scams and what you can do to help protect yourself, visit wescom.org/security-center or call us at 1-888-4WESCOM (1-888-493-7266).