By Claudia Loucks
Geneseo Current
In a show of community collaboration, area banks have joined forces with the Geneseo Police Department to combat the increasing threat of ATM fraud.
A statement released today states, “With the increasing sophistication of criminals placing skimmers on ATMs, our local financial institutions recognized the need for a united front to protect both their customers and the winder community.”
In response to this threat, the Geneseo banking community has come together to purchase skimming detection devices for the Geneseo Police Department. These devices, known as Skim Scans, will allow officers to quickly and efficiently detect fraudulent skimmers while on patrol at local ATMs. Officers now will be able to scan the machines on a regular basis to ensure they are safe and secure for public use.
Fraudulent skimming devices have become a pressing concern for banks nationwide, and Geneseo is no exception, information states. Criminals install these devices on ATMs to capture sensitive card information, such as debit card numbers and PINS, without customers’ knowledge. The stolen information can then be used for unauthorized transactions, leading to significant losses and identity theft.
The partnership between the banks and the local police is a proactive step in safeguarding the financial well-being of Geneseo residents. Information received about the joint effort states that by equipping the police with the skimming detection devices, “the banks aim to deter criminals from targeting our ATMs and ensure that the community feels secure when conducting transactions. It is also a testament to the strong relationship between local businesses and law enforcement, working hand-in-hand to protect residents.”
“As fraud continues to evolve, the partnership between the banks and the police department represents an ongoing commitment to innovation, vigilance, and the security of the Geneseo community. Together, our banks and police force are building a safer, more resilient future for all.”