The use of ATMs in Azerbaijan continues to grow, with machines now found in public areas, shopping centers, and even on street corners. But these convenient cash points are not immune to fraud.
In several European countries, a new scam has been reported involving ATM cash-dispensing slots. Criminals attach sticky materials or thin plastic overlays inside the cash slot to trap the banknotes a customer tries to withdraw. When the customer assumes the transaction failed and leaves, the fraudster returns to retrieve the trapped cash.
Akif Nasirli, head of the Center for Liberal Economists, says banks must be more careful in choosing ATM locations.
“Machines should be placed in areas with maximum control. Even at night, the surrounding area must be well-lit, and all devices should be under 24/7 video surveillance,” he stressed.
Nasirli added that customer vigilance is just as important.
“People must remain alert, especially during peak payout days when queues form for salaries and pensions. Don’t rush the process. Look carefully at the ATM before you start and stay focused until you finish. And never share your PIN code with strangers, no matter how ‘helpful’ they seem.”
Security experts warn that simple precautions—checking the ATM for unusual attachments, covering the keypad when entering your PIN, and avoiding suspicious-looking machines—can drastically reduce the risk of falling victim to such scams.
