PHOTOS: Police Seek ATM 'Skimming' Suspects

Fairfax County Police are still seeking assistance with locating suspects for the late June/early July bank ATM skimming incidents. In addition to suspects already shown, these photos show a female suspect involved in the crimes. Detectives seek the public's help.

Financial crimes detectives are also offering tips on how to detect a skimming device on your ATM. Police are asking residents to take precautions and stay alert.

Detectives are asking for the public’s help in recognizing suspects linked to a series of compromised Automatic Teller Machines (ATMs). Skimming devices were detected on at least four different ATMs across Fairfax County in recent weeks.

Police were notified after bank security personnel noticed unidentified men placing skimming devices on the drive-thru ATM at the SunTrust Bank at 6052 Burke Commons Road on July 6. The three suspects were described as white men, in their 30s, and one carried a pizza box. 

After further investigation, police determined ATM skimming devices were also placed on SunTrust banks at 6126 Rolling Road on June 28 and 29 and 9400 Richmond Highway on June 6.

Banking personnel have identified affected customers; however police remind the public that this crime is on the rise and that they should continue to check their bank statements closely for any discrepancies. Police also urge the public to closely look at ATMs when they are making financial transactions. The skimming devices may appear on machines (as shown in photos here) and may be affixed loosely to machines with tape. Contact bank personnel and police immediately.

Anyone with information is asked to call Crime Solvers by phone at 1-866-411-TIPS/8477, e-mail at www.fairfaxcrimesolvers.org or text “TIP187” plus your message to CRIMES/274637 or call Fairfax County Police at 703-691-2131.

What is Skimming?

Skimming is a process in which a device affixed to an ATM allows criminals to steal your financial data. Financial Crimes detectives offer the following advice in trying to avoid becoming a victim of this steadily-growing crime:

1. Know what to look for. Skimmers are small devices that fit over the slot your insert your card into. The devices are temporary and may be affixed with tape or glue. Look closely at the slot where you insert the card.

2. Look for hidden cameras. There is typically a pinhole camera hidden on or near the ATM. The device may be stuck to the top or side of the machine or placed inside a light fixture above it. Many ATMs also have security cameras but they are much more obvious and permanent.

3. Check the keypad. Look closely to make sure there is not a keypad overlay that could record keystrokes electronically.

4. Protect your PIN. Use your hand to shield your pin as you enter it. Be aware of anyone standing close-by who may be attempting to watch.

5. Know your surroundings. Consider using ATMs that are in areas where there are security cameras, such as inside of a bank. Don't let strangers help you with "broken" machines. Remember, other machines, such as gas stations that allow you to pay at the pump are also at risk.

6. Check your statements often. Keep an eye out for all expenditures; often thieves will steal your numbers and use them for small, ordinary purchases like gas or groceries. Keep an eye out.