Beware of ATM Card Swap: A Growing Concern in Nigeria

Opinion April 4, 2025

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Contents

By Abah Benjamin Eneojoh

As Nigerians continue to rely on Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) for their daily financial transactions, a new trend of card swapping has emerged, leaving many victims bewildered and financially vulnerable. In this article, we will explore the root of this issue and provide guidance on how to avoid falling prey to this scam.

The Modus Operandi

The scam typically occurs when an ATM user inserts their card into the machine, only to have it retained or spat out. In many cases, the machine may appear to malfunction, prompting the user to remove their card and reinsert it. However, unbeknownst to the user, the machine may have swapped their card with a different one, often with a similar appearance.

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The Consequences

When the user attempts to use the swapped card, they will inevitably encounter difficulties, as the card will not match their password or PIN. This can lead to frustration, financial losses, and even identity theft. Beware of ATM Card Swap: A Growing Concern in Nigeria

Implementation and Prevention

To avoid falling victim to this scam, it is essential to be vigilant when using ATMs. Here are some preventive measures to take:

Verify the card: Before reinserting your card into the ATM, ensure it is indeed your card. Check the name, card number, and expiration date to confirm its authenticity.
Be cautious of malfunctioning ATMs: If the ATM appears to be malfunctioning or retains your card, do not attempt to reinsert it. Instead, contact your bank or the ATM operator to report the issue.
Monitor your account activity: Regularly check your account statements to detect any suspicious transactions.
Use ATMs at secure locations: Opt for ATMs located in well-lit, secure areas, such as bank branches or shopping malls.

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Tracing the Root of Card Swap

While the exact cause of card swapping is still unclear, it is believed to be the result of a combination of factors, including:

ATM maintenance and repair: Poorly maintained or repaired ATMs may be more prone to card swapping.
Card skimming and shimming: Criminals may use card skimming or shimming devices to steal card information and swap cards.
Insider involvement: In some cases, bank employees or ATM technicians may be complicit in the card swapping scheme.

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Conclusion

Card swapping is a growing concern in Nigeria, and it is essential for ATM users to be aware of the risks and take preventive measures. By verifying the card, being cautious of malfunctioning ATMs, monitoring account activity, and using ATMs at secure locations, Nigerians can reduce their chances of falling victim to this scam. Remember, vigilance is key to protecting your financial security.