Bangkok: Arrest Made in K Bank ATM Skimming Case
Bangkok authorities have arrested one suspect after discovering ATM skimming devices on a Kasikorn Bank ATM, reports the Bangkok Post.
Earlier this week, a customer alerted Kasikorn Bank of the suspicious-looking ATM at Soi Ramkhamhaeng 58/3. According to Thai PBS, the bank alerted police that ATM surveillance footage showed the suspects were most likely foreigners.
Less than 24 hours after the tip-off, police caught a Russian man who matched the security video footage and had reportedly returned to the ATM to retrieve the skimming device, according to Bangkok Post.
The bank said in a statement, cited by Thai PBS, that the skimming devices found on the ATM were a new type of mechanism apparently made to counteract anti-skimming mechanisms installed on all of the bank’s ATMS.
ATM skimming typically involves two devices: a card reader placed over the ATM’s real card reader that scans and records the encrypted information on a card’s magnetic strip, and a hidden camera or fake ATM keypad to record the punched in pin number associated with an individual’s account.
The chief investigator, Police Major Pirarat Yoma, said it only takes 16 seconds to install skimming devices, and that overseas identify theft gangs use the stolen information months after it’s collected to make bank withdraws.
The suspect in custody claimed he only installed the devices, and police are expanding their search to find his accomplices.
Thailand lawyer comment:
Under Thailand Criminal Law, theft is defined as dishonestly taking something that belongs to another person, and is punishable by up to three years in prison and/or a fine of up to 6,000 Baht.
There is a high level of risk associated with use of ATMs throughout Thailand, particularly in tourist areas. ATM locations that are closely supervised, such as those inside banks, are probably safer than locations on public streets.
Read the full story:
Bangkok Post – Police Net Card Skimmer Suspect
Thai PBS – New Type of ATM Skimming Device Found at a K Bank’s ATM
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