Anambra State has been rocked by a shocking incident in which an unidentified woman allegedly swapped the ATM card of a physically-challenged woman. The ATM swap scam, which was captured on video and went viral across social media platforms, has raised serious concerns.
According to the police, the victim, who uses crutches due to a physical disability, was at the ATM to conduct a transaction when the suspect approached her under the pretense of offering assistance. The unidentified woman appeared harmless. However, in a swift and cunning move, she allegedly swapped the disabled woman’s ATM card with her own, without the victim’s knowledge.
Shortly after the suspect left the ATM kiosk, the victim began receiving multiple debit alerts on her phone. The withdrawals, which totalled ₦2 million, had been made in different transactions within a short period. She immediately contacted her bank.
The Anambra State Police Command launched an investigation into the ATM swap fraud. Police spokesperson, SP Tockukwu Ikenga, confirmed the investigation and asked for help in identifying the suspect.
The police urge residents of Nnewi and nearby areas to report any relevant information. The command aims to catch the suspect and prevent further ATM swap crimes.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Nnaghe Obono Itam, expressed concern. He directed the police to use intelligence tools to track down the fraudster. The suspect’s criminal gang is also a target.
ATM swap scam on the rise
ATM swap scam have increased across Nigeria. Criminals exploit vulnerable individuals, including the elderly and disabled, by swapping ATM cards while offering assistance. Banks face rising security challenges.
Security sources told Medialord.ng that similar ATM frauds have been reported in various states. In these cases, fraudsters often operate in busy areas to blend in. Card-swapping tactics, including PIN theft, are common in these crimes.
Experts warn that criminals have become more sophisticated in their approach. Dr. Chidi Nwosu, a cybercrime analyst, advises caution. He urges customers not to accept help from strangers at ATMs.
“Banks must also step up their anti-fraud measures, including using more secure chip-and-PIN cards and enhancing real-time transaction monitoring to detect and block unauthorized withdrawals,” he added.
Other experts suggest banks should improve on biometric verification and surveillance. They also urge customers to be cautious when using ATMs. “Always cover the keypad while entering a PIN. Avoid leaving your card unattended, and never share your personal information with strangers” a security source said.
Security experts also recommend using ATMs in well-lit, monitored areas. Customers should report suspicious activities immediately to the bank or the police. This helps prevent further fraud incidents.
Dr. Nwosu emphasizes the need for banks to implement real-time transaction monitoring. This would help block unauthorized withdrawals and provide a quick response to ATM swap fraud, he submitted.
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