‘Alert’ call as many fall victim to ATM Skimming fraud in Strabane

Saturday 16 June   
Strabane Sinn Féin Councillor Brian Mc Mahon has urged anyone in the Strabane area who may have used an ATM in the last week to check their bank account balance immediately as it is still unclear just how many people have fallen victim to a major skimming device fraud operation by what he describes as heartless criminals.    

He said,
“I am aware of a large number of people including a number of work colleagues and close friends who have had their savings completely cleaned out in what was clearly a major skimming device operation targeting a number of different ATM’s in the town area during the week. 
 “Families already struggling to make ends meet are now facing severe financial hardship at the hands of these heartless criminals.
 “The total number of people who have fallen victim on this occasion is still unclear so I would encourage anyone who has used an ATM in the Strabane area within the last week to check your account balance immediately and to contact your bank and have your card cancelled if you suspect any money has been withdrawn with your knowledge.
 “The gangs involved in this type of crime are becoming more and more sophisticated in disguising the card reading equipment they are using but the standard advice to always use your hand to shield your pin when using it still appears to be the best means of thwarting these unscrupulous criminals.