It’s still not clear whether thousands of consumers had their debit cards skimmed at a point-of-sale terminal in Victoria last week.
“This is an active investigation led by Interac,” said Sheira Hallam, head of communications for Coast Capital Credit Union. “While they would have these details, I am not sure what they would be willing to share while the investigation is underway.”
Const. Mike Russell said Victoria police have no update on the case because the bank — the victim in this case — has not reported the matter to police.
A skimming operation involves counterfeiting debit cards using information obtained through a card reader illicitly installed on an automated bank machine or through a tampered point-of-sale terminal.
Coast Capital has advised 950 clients who may have been affected to change their personal identification numbers. Other major financial institutions such as TD Canada Trust, Scotiabank, Royal Bank and Bank of Montreal could not say how many of their clients might be involved.
In the meantime, it’s still safe to use debit cards, Hallam said.
“Even if a card is compromised, the Interac zero liability protects them from losses. So they won’t see any losses in their accounts from the unauthorized transactions.”
Chip cards are not being compromised, she said. But there’s a greater danger of having debit cards skimmed when people swipe the magnetic stripe on the backs of their debit cards.
Chip technology combined with punching in a personal identification number significantly reduces the chances of a debit card being compromised.
“So if you are dipping the chip in the machine, you should be good,” Hallam said.
Saanich police Sgt. Steve Eassie said people should make sure their debit cards go through the usual keypad.
“If you’re passing your card off to someone else to swipe, make sure it stays within your view. The key thing to watch for is if they’re swiping it in an area where you can’t see what they’re doing with the card,” Eassie said.
Victoria police recommend shielding your PIN with your hand or body when using an ATM or point-of-sale terminal, using a reputable financial institution’s ATM whenever possible and avoiding point-of-sale terminals that are not chip compatible.
Change your pin often and never share it with anyone, said Russell, who also advised reviewing financial statements for unusual activity and contacting a financial institution immediately if you suspect your card has been compromised.
