[Nordvpn S.A.] Security experts warn travelers about the dangers of receiving cash overseas
*Nordvpn S.A.*
Press release: September 19, 2024
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Security experts warn travelers about the dangers of where you get cash abroad *NordVPN warns that Japanese people need to remain wary of fraudulent ATM machines during their holiday travels due to an increase in ‘card skimming’ techniques by criminals. *
– * Travelers heading to busy resorts are especially at risk of falling for this scam, as their judgment regarding cash machine safety is impaired after drinking alcohol. *
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NordVPN’s cybersecurity experts are raising awareness of a new wave of “card skimming” techniques and warning Japanese people about what to be careful about when using overseas ATMs. *
Japanese people need to remain wary of fraudulent ATM machines while on holiday as criminals increase ‘card skimming’ techniques, says NordVPN
announced. Experts warn that it’s not just cyber threats that people should be wary of, physical payment cards are at risk as well, especially when traveling to tourist destinations.
This holiday season, NordVPN Cybersecurity Advisor Adrian Warmenhoven is warning travelers about ATM skimmers that criminals set up to steal victims’ payment card information.
“Travellers are often the most vulnerable to ATM fraud,” says Adrianus Warmenhoven, NordVPN cybersecurity expert. “This is because travelers often don’t know what ATMs in the countries they’re visiting are really like, so they don’t realize that ATMs have card skimmers and put their cards into the compromised machines. , you risk ruining your vacation.”
“With thousands of Japanese people traveling to countries like South Korea, the United States, Taiwan and Thailand, criminals know that their judgment tends to sway after a few drinks. When a traveler is in need and sees an ATM on the street, they will go straight to it without even thinking about whether it is safe or not.”
What is an ATM skimmer?
An ATM skimmer is a device that can read the magnetic stripe of a credit or debit card when it is inserted into a dangerous machine. The device stores data from every card the account holder inserts into the reader, including the card holder’s name, card number, and expiration date, until the thief later retrieves the device.
Criminals use stolen card information to create fake bank cards, commit shopping fraud, sell online, and more.
Skimmers come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Some can be physically attached to a payment machine by extending the card slot, while others can be placed inside the machine and only a very observant user will notice it.
Criminals also use hidden cameras that attempt to store sensitive information while victims use ATMs.
Finally, a fake keypad may be placed on top of the ATM’s original keypad to store PIN numbers without the user’s knowledge.
* QR Codes – Another Threat for Travelers *
As digitalization continues to advance, QR codes have become indispensable, providing convenience for a variety of everyday tasks while traveling, from connecting to Wi-Fi at a cafe to ordering more efficiently at a restaurant.
However, Warmenhoven adds that blindly trusting QR codes can inadvertently expose users to server fraud. It’s important to approach QR codes with caution and being aware of the potential risks.
“There are things you can do proactively to avoid falling victim to scammers. Before you scan a QR code, make sure it comes from a legitimate source and that it’s from that location.” Also, consider using a dedicated QR code scanning app instead of the default camera app as it can often detect malicious sites and software. If a QR code redirects you to an unrelated or suspicious site, refrain from providing any personal information and leave the page immediately,” says Adrian Warmenhoven.
How to identify a credit card skimmer
Although skimming devices are designed to be invisible, they can be identified through visual inspection or physical inspection. Here are some easy steps you can take.
– * Check the card reader. *
Is there something wrong with the machine? If you notice any unusual spots, a skimmer may be installed.
– *Look for hidden cameras around credit card readers*
. Check to see if there is a suspicious hole pointing toward the card slot. If so, a hidden camera may be recording you entering your PIN.
– * Consider payment methods. *
Using an app to pay or choosing an ATM in a high-traffic area or inside a bank branch is safer than using an ATM in a location where fraudsters can easily exploit it.
Traveler’s guide to safely using payment cards abroad
– Prepaid cards for travel*
Consider using . In the event of a leak, prepaid cards cannot be used to steal personal information. Deposits are inaccessible and much easier to freeze.
– Bank statements online even while on vacation*
Let’s check. This step is important because many hackers test cards before stealing money. They’ll make a small charge to check if your account is valid. Only then will the hacker try to withdraw funds from the account.
– Contact your bank before you go on vacation*
. Some card issuers will freeze your card if they detect unusual activity that may indicate fraud.
– *ATM*
Please take special care when using it. Think carefully about whether you really need to use an ATM at your destination, and if you absolutely must, always choose an ATM from a reputable bank located in a well-lit, high-traffic area.
*About NORDVPN*
NordVPN is the world’s most advanced VPN service provider, used by millions of internet users around the world. Dedicated IP, Double VPN, Onion Over
It offers features such as VPN servers and zero tracking to improve your online privacy. One of the product’s key features is Threat Prevention Pro, a tool that blocks malicious websites, trackers, ads, and scans for malware downloads.
NordVPN’s parent company Nord
Security’s latest product is Saily, a global eSIM service. NordVPN is known for its user-friendliness and offers the best prices on the market. Our VPN provider has over 6,400 servers covering 111 countries around the world. Learn more here:
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