Newport Police Warn Residents About ATM Scams, ‘Jackpotting’

NEWPORT — Chief Travis Bingham and the Newport Police Department are warning residents about an uptick in automated teller machine (ATM) scams. 

The United States Secret Service has issued warnings to a variety of financial institutions across the country about cyberattacks on stand-alone ATMs’ also known as ‘jackpotting’. Stand-alone ATMs are typically located in pharmacies, big box stores and drive-through ATMs.

These attacks consist of scammers installing malicious software or hardware implanted in ATMs that force the machines to dispense large amounts of cash on demand. The scammers install the malware through the use of specialized electronic devices or by gaining physical access to the machines. 

Newport Police would like to share the following ATM safety tips from the American Bankers Association:

• If you notice that an ATM has been tampered with, contact the local authorities.
• Be aware of your surroundings. If you notice suspicious activity, do not use the ATM at that time. 
• Before using an ATM, check for cracked or broken card readers or extra attachments.
• If an ATM dispenses more money than requested, it could mean that it has been tampered with. 
• When using an ATM, make sure to cover the pin pad when inputting your PIN.
• Remember to take your card and your receipt with you after your transaction. 

Residents or business owners who observe any suspicious behavior around an ATM area are asked to contact Newport Police. 

For more information on scams and fraud visit the Federal Trade Commission website here. 

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