News

ATM scam tops NZ$1 million in losses

March 30, 2012

New Zealand bank ANZ National now estimates that approximately $1 million (US$820,000) has been stolen in a skimming case that just seems to keep expanding. More than 500 customer accounts have been compromised in the fraud case.

According to a story at stuff.co.nz, Auckland police have released an image captured from CCTV of a man standing near a skimmed machine, who they think may be connected with the crimes. Authorities have now identified compromised machines in five cities in New Zealand. The thieves reportedly placed skimming machines on ATM card slots and small cameras above the cash machines to record PIN numbers.

Police spokeswoman Noreen Hegarty said the stolen money had mostly been withdrawn offshore. Scam victims have reported their money was fraudulently taken from ATMs as far away as Italy and Thailand.

An ANZ National spokesman said the banks were continuing to contact and reimburse customers who had funds stolen and card fees incurred in the skimming case. ''Ensuring our customers do not suffer any financial loss is our priority. We are working hard to get refunds to customers as quickly as possible.  Most customer refunds are being done within 24 hours.''

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