RCMP say some debit machines in retail outlets may not be safe. The RCMP has a video surveillance tape that shows card-skimming scheme in action. The thieves tried to create a distraction in order to steal the pin-pad device from an Airdrie retailer.
The plan is to switch it with a rigged device allowing them to steal customers' bank information. The plan was to distract the retailer and switch the real pin-pad with a phoney one.
Fortunately in this case the retailer realized something was wrong, but the RCMP says the thieves are still around.
Retailers are warned to secure the pin-pad so it can't be removed. Consumers should be changing PIN numbers often, even monthly.
In addition, check bank statements carefully for any irregularities.
RCMP Sargeant Patrick Webb says "this is not a Canada thing, this is not a North American thing, this is a global issue where your card can turn up in Asia, in Africa, in any other place at the same time".
