HSBC Bank have alerted ATM users to be vigilant when using the machines, in view of a gang of fraudsters who have been caught on camera stealing bank cards and their pins.

A statement issued yesterday by the bank warned that a criminal gang, usually working in teams of two, is targeting customers using ATM machines in Malta.

The conmen are using a technique known as “shoulder surfing”. While the user is keying in the security pin number, a person discreetly observes the keys being pressed, noting the PIN being inputted.

The other accomplice then drops something on the floor and distracts the customer by asking him whether the object on the floor belongs to him. While this exchange is going on, the first thief, who is located next to the machine, quits the transaction by the cancel button on the ATM and takes the ejected card. The customer is then led to believe that his card has been retained by the machine.

However, having obtained both card and PIN, the fraudsters are free to withdraw money from the ATM once the customer leaves the scene.

The bank is cooperating with the police in order to catch those responsible, and has forwarded CCTV footage of the incidents for investigation. Although it appears that there have been relatively few cases, customers are asked to exercise vigilance.

The Malta Independent contacted the police’s official information unit and asked why it had not issued a statement earlier in order to alert the public, given that such information was in the public’s interest.

However, by the time we went to print, no reply was received.