We’ve all heard warnings about ATM skimmers. But what is an ATM skimmer? It’s a data-reading device used to steal information of your debit or credit card while you’re using an ATM machine. Could you spot one? Do you know what to look for? Thieves use a great variety of skimming devices which are often difficult to detect. One thing you could do is familiarize yourself with the look and feel of ATMs you regularly use and be on the lookout for changes in their appearance. Immediately report any unusual appearance to your financial institution and police.

Here is an example of an ATM skimmer recently discovered in our area (but not on one of our ATMs):

Peephole camera recording customer’s PIN

Everyone seems to be offering “expert” financial advice these days. Case in point: Econ4u.org. How credible are they?   Econ4u.org says it’s run by the Center for Economic on Entrepreneurial Literacy, a non-profit rumored to have been started by a payday lender—but verifying info about the company and the non-profit is difficult, even though plenty of news organizations have quoted them. A Google search brings up practically nothing.

Furthermore, to use Econ4U.org’s tools, you have to provide your email address—but they don’t post a privacy statement (a HUGE Red Flag). Stick to sources you know and trust—and if you’re not sure, ask someone you do trust.