03/04/2024
STAY ALERT!
Fraudsters have implemented a new modus operandi involving debit cards to take money from innocent bystanders near ATMs.
According to Lynn Morales Cruz, a member of the Canyon Ranch Community Facebook group dedicated to residents of said village, the modus operandi goes like this: an innocent-looking woman will approach you to ask for help with her ATM debit card, claiming she can’t see what’s on the card. Once you’re holding the card, she’ll make a scene, and accomplices lying in wait will pounce on you and force you to give a settlement.
Cruz said she was nearly tricked one morning at Waltermart Carmona in Cavite. But she could avoid becoming a victim after remembering her police nephew’s warning. “Hindi ko siya pinansin, sabi ko sa kanya halika dun tayo sa sikyo magpatulong.”
After Cruz told the woman to ask the security guard for help, the woman immediately left, followed by three others. “Hinabol ko ng tanaw at nakita kong may 3 syang kasama (isang babae at dalawang lalake).”
Other netizens advised each other to be careful. If they insist on getting help, don’t touch their card and let them press the keys on their own. You can tell them to approach authorities like security guards or bank officers. Or if possible, it’s better not to engage at all. Be alert!
