ATM Card Scam: From ATMs to online shopping, important tips to protect yourself from card cloning fraud

Smart Tips to Stay Safe From Card Cloning and Digital Payment Frauds

Card cloning scams are becoming increasingly common, affecting users who rely on their debit or credit cards for everyday transactions—from ATM withdrawals to online shopping. In this type of fraud, cybercriminals steal your card details, create a duplicate card and use it to withdraw money or make purchases without your permission. Understanding how these scams work and how to safeguard your financial information is essential in today’s digital banking environment.

What Exactly Is Card Cloning?

Card cloning is a fraudulent process in which criminals copy the data stored in the magnetic strip of your original card and produce a duplicate version. This generally happens when cards are used at unsafe locations such as tampered ATMs, restaurants, fuel stations or fake e-commerce websites. Fraudsters often use skimming devices—small gadgets attached to card slots—to capture card information. Hidden pinhole cameras or keypad overlays are used to record the PIN you enter, making it easier for criminals to empty your account.

Where Card Fraud Happens Most Often

Several locations pose a high risk for card cloning due to weak security or unsupervised transactions:

ATM Machines: Fraudsters attach skimming devices to the card slot to capture your card data.
Restaurants and Petrol Pumps: When you hand over your card, an employee may use a portable skimmer to copy your information.
Online Shopping: Fake websites, phishing links and fraudulent apps can steal card details during checkout.
Public Wi-Fi Networks: Open hotspots make it easy for hackers to intercept your banking information during online transactions.

Recognising these risk zones can help you avoid becoming an easy target.

How to Detect if Your Card Has Been Cloned

Card cloning often goes unnoticed until suspicious activity appears. Possible warning signs include:

Unexpected withdrawals or payments
ATM errors or unusual behaviour in the machine
SMS/email alerts about transactions you did not initiate
Declined payments despite having sufficient balance

If any of these signs appear, immediate action is necessary.

Simple and Effective Ways to Protect Yourself

Preventing card cloning is easier than dealing with its aftermath. Follow these essential safety tips:

Check the ATM: Inspect the card slot for loose parts or strange attachments, and look for hidden cameras around the keypad.
Cover the Keypad: Always shield the keypad with your hand while entering your PIN.
Avoid Handing Over Your Card: In restaurants, petrol pumps or stores, insist on swiping the card yourself.
Shop Only on Secure Websites: Use platforms beginning with “https://” and avoid clicking on unknown links.
Avoid Public Wi-Fi for Banking: Never use open Wi-Fi for financial transactions or digital payments.
Enable Alerts: Turn on SMS and email alerts for all transactions.
Use Card Lock/Unlock Features: Many banking apps offer instant card locking to prevent misuse.
Enable OTP and Two-Factor Authentication: This adds an extra layer of security for online purchases.

What to Do If Your Card Gets Cloned

If you suspect card cloning, quick action can minimise financial loss. Here’s what to do immediately:

Contact Your Bank: Block the card instantly through customer service or mobile banking.

Report the Unauthorised Transactions: File a complaint with your bank to initiate the dispute process.

Register a Cybercrime Complaint: Use the national cybercrime portal or visit your nearest police station.

Request a Replacement Card: Ask the bank to issue a new card and change your net banking password.

Taking prompt steps ensures faster recovery and prevents further misuse of your account.