The Sinaloa State Secretariat of Public Security has issued a warning for people using bank ATMs.
Authorities reported that they have detected the presence of foreign nationals who allegedly engage in swapping customers’ credit or debit cards while pretending to help them complete banking transactions.
The incidents have been reported in the municipalities of Ahome, Culiacán, Guasave, and Mazatlán. According to authorities, these individuals—referred to as “card switchers”—position themselves near bank ATMs and politely approach customers, offering assistance to those who appear unfamiliar with how to use the machines.
They typically target older adults who are alone.
After offering assistance with a customer’s credit or debit card, they allegedly switch it with another card. They then use the stolen card to withdraw money or make unauthorized transactions from the victim’s account.
The Sinaloa State Secretariat of Public Security recommends the following precautions:
- Conduct banking transactions while accompanied by someone you trust whenever possible.
- Politely refuse assistance from strangers at ATMs.
- Avoid using ATMs located in isolated or poorly lit areas.
- Inspect the card slot for signs of tampering before inserting your card.
- Cover the keypad when entering your PIN so that no one can observe it.
Source: 889noticias
