Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Warden Message - ATM Fraud
June 24, 2009
Several American citizens have reported to the U.S. Embassy in Dar es
Salaam that money has been taken from their bank accounts by an
unidentified person in Nairobi, Kenya. All of the complainants stated
they used ATMs in Dar es Salaam. The Embassy is unsure of the method
the perpetrators are using and must assume that all ATMs in Tanzania are
potentially compromised.
The Embassy strongly recommends that American citizens check their
accounts and determine if any unusual withdrawals have occurred. If so,
the Embassy suggests American citizens contact their bank immediately.
The bank is in the best position to take measures to prevent further
losses. The Embassy is working closely with the Tanzanian police on
this matter.
Updated information on travel and security in Tanzania may be obtained
from the Department of State by calling 1-888-407-4747 toll free in the
United States and Canada, or for callers outside the United States and
Canada, a regular toll line at 1-202-501-4444. For further information
please consult the Country Specific Information for Tanzania, the East
Africa Travel Alert, and the Worldwide Caution Travel Alert, which are
available on the Bureau of Consular Affairs Internet website at
http://travel.state.gov
The Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Tanzania can be contacted by
telephone [255](22) 266-8001 x 4122 and fax [255](22) 266-8238.
You may also contact the U.S. Embassy in Tanzania via email at
drsacs@state.gov.
After hours American Citizen emergencies should call [255] (22)
266-8001.
10 WAYS TO PROTECT YOUR SELF FROM ATM FRAUD
ReplyDeleteKeep in mind these eight things before using an ATM to prevent fraud.
When using an ATM, keep the following things in mind to prevent you from the ATM fraud.
Always check the card reader slot and PIN pad for signs of tampering. Do not use the machine if there is an overlay on the PIN pad or anything else seems suspicious.
Watch out persons in the vicinity. If they appear suspicious, do not use that ATM.
Never allow anyone to offer you assistance. When in doubt, call the bank and ask for help or an instruction.
Stand closer to the ATM screen and shield your keystrokes from others waiting in line or camera by using the other hand to cover up when you entering the PIN.
If you suspect that the ATM is not working properly, press cancel and remove your card. Then report the incident to your bank right away.
Make sure the transaction is complete. Secure your cash, card and receipt before leaving the ATM.
Keep the ATM receipt to cross check against your bank statement or passbook. Report any discrepancy to the bank immediately.
Finally, avoid using ATMs in unfamiliar or remote locations. If possible use only the one that attached to the bank.