What you should know about an ABM "scam" email
There is an email circulating throughout the Internet regarding an old but well-known ABM scam. The email describes a method where thieves can get access to a bank account by inserting a plastic "sleeve" into an ABM card slot and then watch as customers enter their Personal Identification Number (PIN). This ABM scam email then asks the recipient to forward the email to as many people as possible.
If you receive the email, do not pass it on to others
While the type of ABM scam described in the email does occur and is an industry-wide issue, there are some inaccuracies in this email regarding the way this particular scam works and how people can protect themselves.
There are situations where a device is inserted into ABM card readers in an effort to capture debit and credit cards. This can happen at any ABM and is not specific to RBC machines. The card then becomes lodged in the device. Contrary to the description in the email, the ABM will not prompt a customer to enter their PIN in this situation. More than likely an individual nearby, usually the perpetrator, advises the customer to try entering their PIN. This gives the perpetrator an opportunity to watch and record the PIN. After the customer leaves the bank machine location, the perpetrator returns to the ABM and removes the device that contains the bank card.
The best way for customers to protect themselves from this or any other type of fraud is to shield their PIN number when at a bank machine or point of sale terminal at a merchant outlet, and to be aware of their immediate surroundings. Also, there are no circumstances where customers will be asked or required to give their bank card PIN number to any person, including RBC staff or others, such as police authorities. For more safeguarding tips, see below.
For more information
While alerting the public to scams is the responsibility of the police authorities, RBC reinforces procedures for the use and safeguarding of bank cards in many ways:
- verbally,
- prominently in materials that accompany a new card or replacement card,
- in consumer awareness brochures such as "Straight Talk about Safeguarding Against Financial Fraud," available in branches or by calling 1-800-ROYAL-99.
- on our web site at the following addresses:
Information about debit or credit card fraud and tips on how consumers can protect themselves is also available at other card-related web sites, such as:
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