What Is Debit Card Skimming?

Card skimming involves the unauthorized copying of electronic data from your debit card. Hidden equipment, such as pin-hole cameras and card reading devices, are installed to obtain your PIN and card data, and the stolen data is then encoded onto a counterfeit card, which is used to withdraw funds without your knowledge.

How To Protect Yourself

• Use your hand or body to shield your PIN when you are conducting transactions at an Automated Banking Machine (ABM) or at a point-of-sale terminal. See Protect your PIN.
• Keep an eye on your banking card when conducting a transaction at the point-of-sale, and only allow your card to be swiped once.
• Check your transaction records against your financial statements regularly. If you detect any unusual activity, contact your financial institution immediately.
• If your debit card is lost, stolen or retained by an ABM, notify your financial institution immediately.
• Your PIN is the key security feature, so never disclose your PIN to anyone. If you suspect that someone knows your PIN, change it immediately.
• When using an ABM, if you suspect anything unusual do not use the machine and report it to the financial institution immediately.
• Be alert. If someone is watching you or makes you feel uncomfortable, cancel the transaction and use a different machine.

What To Do If You Become A Victim Of Debit Card Fraud

• If you suspect you have been a victim of debit card fraud, contact your financial institution immediately.
• Consumers are protected by the Canadian Code of Practice for Consumer Debit Card Services, under which all proven victims of debit card fraud will not suffer any financial losses.