New Fraud on the Rise: ATM Gluing

 

Gluing or Glue-and-Tap is a relatively new method that fraudsters are using at ATMs to access your checking account directly, skipping the need for your card information altogether. This scam typically occurs at a free-standing ATM in a well-trafficked area. 

 

1. The fraudster pours glue into the card reader to make it inoperable
2. When you try to withdraw cash from the ATM you find that the card reader does not work
3. A “helpful bystander” approaches to tell you that the machine is jammed, and that you will have to use tap to complete your withdrawal
4. The fraudster is counting on you, the victim, to be unaware that when using contactless tap cards at an ATM, you must select "end the transaction" on the screen to fully exit your account after a transaction
5. After you walk away, the fraudster can access the account that you left open on the ATM screen and make transactions of their own 

• Avoid any ATM with a card reader that doesn’t seem to work properly
• If you are comfortable using the tap feature on your phone or card for transactions, always wait for the prompt asking if you are finished and confirm that your account is no longer accessible before leaving
• Download the Credit Union West app to monitor your account and set up alerts to notify you of transactions

 

Anyone is vulnerable to and can fall victim to fraud and scams. Please be aware, Credit Union West will never ask for sensitive information like your social security number, account number, debit card PIN or your passwords, especially through an unsolicited call, email or message through social media.