How the scammers remotely controlled ATMs?
Explaining the modus operandi of the gang, Varun Dahiya, ACP (Crime), said that the accused used to install a chip set in the power plug of the ATM.Through this, they could remotely control the machine. When someone tried to withdraw cash from the impacted ATMs, scammers would turn off the ATM right before the cash was dispensed. The two female gang members would assure the victim that a refund would be processed within 24 hours.
Once the person left from the ATM booth, the gang withdrew the cash from the ATM tray, the ACP said.
Scammers operated in Delhi, Gurugram and Faridabad
As per the PTI report, the gang had committed four thefts using the same modus operandi operandi across three different cities in the NCR region. These included two in Delhi, one in Faridabad and another from Gurugram.
Police recovers Rs 23,200 cash and luxury car
According to the police, arrested persons have been identified as Ahsan and Raees, residents of Nuh district, Ashfaq, hailing from Auraiya in Uttar Pradesh, and Nandini and Mahak, residents of Shahdara in Delhi. The police say that they have recovered a luxury car that was used in the crime, along with Rs 23,200 cash from their possession.
How to stay safe from ATM frauds?
Here are some tips that can help stay safe from ATM scams.
- Always inspect the ATM for anything unusual around the card slot or suspicious attachments. Look for signs of tampering like loose components or hidden cameras.
- If your card gets stuck, don’t rely on strangers for help. It’s better to be cautious than risk falling victim to a scam.
- You should directly contact your bank using the customer service number in case your card gets stuck.
- Choose ATMs located in well-lit areas with security cameras, preferably inside a bank branch during operating hours.
