Your account is emptied without touching your card: the invisible fraud sweeping the world
Every week, thousands of bank users face the same nightmare: strange movements in their accounts without losing their card. This type of silent fraud does not require violence, not even physical contact, and happens in a matter of seconds. In this article, we reveal how this mechanism operates and what you can do to avoid becoming the next victim.
### How they clone your card without you noticing
Card cloning fraud consists of copying the information from the magnetic stripe or the chip, usually through devices called skimmers. These can be discreetly installed in ATMs, POS terminals, gas stations, and other points where the card is inserted.
In some cases, criminals complement the operation with hidden cameras or fake keyboards to record the user’s PIN. They also use more advanced techniques, such as spyware on POS systems or hacking networks to intercept banking data.
### Why this fraud continues to work
Despite technological advances, such as the use of EMV chips or data tokenization, many countries still allow the use of magnetic stripe cards. Additionally, many establishments lack updated card readers, which facilitates the work of scammers.
The risk is not limited to physical contact. Methods like phishing, the use of fake Wi-Fi networks, or infected apps also allow capturing data without needing to have the card in hand.
### How to avoid being the next victim
Authorities recommend simple yet effective practices: cover the keyboard when entering your PIN, avoid poorly lit ATMs, frequently check your bank movements, and activate real-time notifications for transactions.
It is also essential to avoid sharing images of cards on social networks, not enter banking details on unsecured websites, and be wary of emails or messages requesting confidential information.
If you detect suspicious activity, act immediately: contact the bank, block the card, and make the necessary report. Speed can make the difference between a minor loss and a total theft.
Credit card fraud involves copying information from the magnetic stripe or chip, usually through devices called skimmers. These can be discreetly installed at ATMs, payment terminals, gas stations, and other points where the card is inserted.
In some cases, criminals complement the operation with hidden cameras or fake keyboards to record the user’s PIN. They also use more advanced techniques, such as spyware in point-of-sale systems or hacking networks to intercept banking data. Once the information is obtained, it can be transferred to fake cards or used for unauthorized purchases and withdrawals.
Many times, the victim does not notice the theft until they check their bank statement or receive an unexpected alert.
### Why this fraud continues to work
Despite technological advances, such as the use of EMV chips or data tokenization, many countries still allow the use of magnetic stripe cards. Additionally, many establishments lack updated readers, making it easier for scammers to operate.
The risk is not limited to physical contact. Methods like phishing, the use of fake Wi-Fi networks, or infected apps also allow data capture without needing to have the card in hand.
In Latin America and Europe, the most vulnerable places are ATMs in poorly supervised areas, unsupervised gas stations, small businesses with questionable terminals, and websites without security certificates.
### How to avoid being the next victim
Authorities recommend simple yet effective practices: cover the keypad when entering your PIN, avoid poorly lit ATMs, frequently review bank transactions, and activate real-time notifications for transactions.
It is also essential to avoid sharing card images on social networks, not entering banking data on pages without encryption, and being wary of emails or messages requesting confidential information.
If you detect suspicious activity, act immediately: contact the bank, block the card, and file the corresponding report. Speed can make the difference between a minor loss and a total theft.
Source: [Original Source](insert-source-link)
