By OBAKENG MAJE
6 May 2025- The police in the Northern Cape said it is increasingly concerned about ATM-related scams reported. The police said the members of the public are urged to exercise caution and remain vigilant when using ATMs.
The Northern Cape police spokesperson, Molefi Shemane said safety tips are recommended. Shemane said the public should be alert and aware of their surroundings before and after using an ATM.
“Never disclose your card or PIN (Personal Identification Number) to anyone under any circumstances. Do not write your PIN on your card or keep it in close proximity to your card. Only insert your card when prompted by the ATM screen.
“Avoid using ATMs with blank screens or those located in poorly lit or secluded areas. Shield the keypad with your hand and body while entering your PIN. Keep a close eye on the card slot to prevent skimming or card swapping,” he said.
Shemane further said people should not accept assistance from strangers at ATMs. He added that they should be cautious of individuals attempting to distract them—criminals often operate in groups.
“Should your card be retained by the ATM, contact your bank’s toll-free stop-card line immediately. Do not allow others to call the bank on your behalf—they may be attempting to deceive you.
“Security personnel stationed at ATMs are there to deter criminal activity and are not authorised to assist with transactions. If assistance is required, consult with a bank official directly,” said Shemane.
He said they should consider setting a daily ATM withdrawal limit at their bank branch for added security. Shemane said the police encourage the public to report any suspicious activity or criminal incidents by calling the Crime Stop number at 08600 10111 or via the MySAPS App.
The Guardian 