Card Skimmers and Pinhole Cameras installed at Automatic Teller Machines

Crime Matters

Crime Prevention Bureau(CPB)


Reports have been made regarding card skimmers and pinhole cameras installed at ATMs to illegally capture card data, including Personal Identification Numbers (PINs). Criminals commonly attach a card skimmer to the card insertion slot and place a miniature pinhole camera concealed in a small rectangular strip on the ATM light-box. These devices are sophisticated and look as if they are part of the ATM. Criminals usually use a remote receiver to obtain the signal emitted by the devices.

Police Advice

  • Pay attention to persons loitering suspiciously in the vicinity;
  • Use indoor ATMs whenever possible, as they tend to be grouped together and are less likely to be tampered with;
  • Form a habit of covering up the keypad while entering your PIN so that no camera can capture your typing; and
  • If you notice any uncommon objects installed at an ATM, immediately stop using it and report to the police.