New ATM Scam Targets Russians: The “Forgotten Card” Scheme
Russians are being warned about a new scam that is happening near ATMs. Strictly speaking, this is more about extortion and blackmail, which is why the main targets for these criminals are elderly people and women.
How the Scam Works
Imagine you are standing in line at an ATM. The person in front of you finishes their transaction but “forgets” to take their card from the machine. As is often the case, people remove the forgotten card themselves so they can use the ATM.
A few minutes later, the person who was in front of you returns, claiming they left their card and want it back. Naturally, you return the card to them. This is when the scam begins: the fraudster pretends to check their balance and “discovers” that 5,000, 10,000, or even 15,000 rubles have just been withdrawn from their account.
Importantly, an alleged witness suddenly appears, backing up the scammer’s story about the missing money.
The Second Act: Threats and Intimidation
Next, the “victim” threatens to call the police, trying to scare you by saying your fingerprints are now on the card. At this point, you may be confronted by two or three people working together to pressure you.
How to Protect Yourself
- Stay alert and do not give in to provocation.
- Never hand over your own money to scammers.
- If accused, demand to see the specific transaction where the money was allegedly withdrawn.
- Agree to call the police if necessary—this often scares off the scammers.
Be vigilant and protect yourself from these types of fraud near ATMs.