ATM Skimmers Found in Bensalem and Lower Southampton

ATM skimmers ― illicit devices that blend into a cash machine's card slot, then record bank card info for later retrieval by a thief ― were found at two bank ATMs along Street Road earlier this month.

PhillyBurbs.com reports that the devices were found on Jan. 11 on the ATMs of TD Bank branches at 2751 Street Road in Bensalem and at 701 East Street Road in Lower Southampton.

Authorities believe that the devices were discovered quickly and that no customer accounts were compromised, the website reports.

Other skimmers have recently been found on ATMs in Bucks and Montgomery counties. Philly.com said a similar incident occured in Medford, N.J.

Security expert Brian Krebs told KYW Newsradio that ATM skimmers are growing increasingly sophisticated and difficult to spot.

If you believe you may have been victimized by a skimmer, inform your bank or credit union immediately. Under the Electronic Fund Transfer Act, your liability is limited to $50 if you notify your financial institution within two days of discovering the theft. If you wait longer, you could be responsible for additional losses.

The FBI recommends the following tips to help protect against ATM skimming:

• Inspect the ATM, gas pump, or credit card reader before using it…be suspicious if you see anything loose, crooked, or damaged, or if you notice scratches or adhesive/tape residue.
• When entering your PIN, block the keypad with your other hand to prevent possible hidden cameras from recording your number.
• If possible, use an ATM at an inside location (less access for criminals to install skimmers). 
• Be careful of ATMs in tourist areas…they are a popular target of skimmers.
• If your card isn’t returned after the transaction or after hitting “cancel,” immediately contact the financial institution that issued the card.

The FBI and Secret Service investigate skimming incidents, according to the FBI.

Patch reporter Tom Sofield contributed to this report.