Beware of bogus devices attached to ATMs

Automated teller machines (ATMs) have become the targeof thieves who have devised a new way to steal cash from victims, according to the Ventura County Sheriff's Department.

Using an electronic device called a skimmer, a customer's card information can be captured and stored, along with the personal identification number (PIN) at the point of transactionCrooks use a device that's designed to look like part of the ATM. The device is attached where customers slide the card into the machine. It then reads the information and stores it for the suspect, who later retrieves it and encodes the account information on a blank card.

The suspect can then withdraw funds from ATMs using the victim's account information.

Recently, information captured by a skimmer on a Thousand Oaks ATM led to 50 customers' accounts being accessed in several locations throughout Southern California. The skimmer was attached to a Bank of America ATM on April 28 and 29.

If a customer encounters any suspicious device on an ATM, or if anything appears out of place on the machine, he should not use it but immediately notify the bank and call the police department.