Urgent Notice From Caixabank to Those Who Use Their Atms: Be Careful, It Could Happen to You

Bad news for CaixaBank customers. ATM scams are on the rise and CaixaBank has issued an urgent warning to its customers. There is a fraud that is spreading across various parts of Spain.

This scam, known as 'the seed scam,' is a strategy that criminals use to distract victims at the exact moment they are withdrawing money. The speed with which they act means that, in many cases, the person barely realizes what has happened until it is too late.

CaixaBank Warns of 'The Seed Scam'

This fraud is based on distraction and the coordination of at least two scammers. While one observes the victim and tries to identify their PIN code, the other throws a bill on the ground just as the user is withdrawing money.

When bending down to pick it up, the criminal takes advantage of the distraction to take the bank card or the newly withdrawn cash. This method has been reported in various areas and has affected people of all ages. Although older individuals are usually the most vulnerable to this type of deception.

How You Can Avoid Being a Victim of the Scam

To minimize the risks of falling for this type of fraud, CaixaBank recommends its customers always stay alert when using an ATM. It is essential not to take your eyes off the screen or the money and to be wary of anyone trying to start a conversation or ask questions. Distraction is the key to this scam, so staying focused on the transaction can be enough to avoid being deceived.

Covering the keypad with your hand when entering the PIN code is another essential security measure. Scammers often memorize the code to later use it in other fraudulent transactions.

Opting for ATMs located in busy areas or inside bank branches also reduces the chances of being a victim of these crimes. These spaces usually have surveillance cameras and enhanced security.

What to Do If You've Already Been a Victim of This Scam

If you suspect you have been a victim of this fraud, it is crucial to act quickly. Blocking the bank card immediately is the first step to take to prevent any misuse. CaixaBank offers the possibility of doing so by calling their customer service or through the mobile app, which speeds up the process and avoids further inconveniences.

Reporting the incident to the police is also essential. Providing details about the location and time the scam occurred can be key for authorities to identify those responsible. This way, they can prevent more people from being affected.

Other ATM Frauds You Should Know About

'The seed scam' is not the only strategy used by criminals at ATMs. There are other forms of fraud, such as installing devices on ATMs that copy card information, a technique known as skimming.

There are also cases where the bill dispenser is blocked so that the user thinks the ATM hasn't dispensed the money. But once they leave, the scammers retrieve the trapped cash.