Safeguard Protected offers visual checks for ATM. Our guard are trained to look out for Skimming Devices placed on ATMs or around the vestibule. Skimming devices are often hard to detect, as they’re designed to blend in with the ATM hardware. We check for unusual gaps on the ATM. Unusual holes and stickers/decals that have been moved or appear to not match the decals placed on the machine by the manufacturer.
- Inspect Vestibule Entry Reader (Card Swipe or Tap Pad)
- Wiggle Test: Gently pull or wiggle the reader. A loose or misaligned reader may be a fake overlay.
- Check for Glue or Tape: Look for residue, adhesive, or odd seams around the edges.
- Examine Color and Texture: If the reader looks different from usual (color mismatch, thicker than normal), it could be fake.
- Listen for Clicks: Some skimmers click when tampered with or moved.
- Check the ATM Face and Card Slot
- Inspect Card Slot:
- Gently tug the card slot. A skimmer may pop off or feel loose.
- Look for any part that is bulkier or sticks out unusually.
- Look at the Keypad:
- Moving the keypad slightly. Fake overlays can be installed to capture PINs.
- Search for Cameras:
- Look for pinholes near the keypad, brochure holders, or light fixtures — anywhere a camera might be hidden.
- Shine a flashlight to detect hidden lenses.
- Inspect Card Slot:
- Examine Surrounding Areas
- Check Ceiling Tiles, Walls, or Signs:
- Hidden cameras or Bluetooth devices may be installed in seemingly normal fixtures.
- Inspect Trash Cans or Vents:
- These can hide transmitters or batteries used to power skimmers.
- Use a Bluetooth/Wi-Fi Scanner (if provided):
- Skimmers often broadcast signals. A scanner app or device may detect “unfamiliar” or “unnamed” Bluetooth devices nearby.
- Check Ceiling Tiles, Walls, or Signs:
- Observe Behavior or Tampering Signs
- Suspicious Items:
- Extra panels, cardholders, brochures, or leaflets that weren’t there before.
- Customer Reports:
- Document reports of ATM “eating cards” or “weird beeping”.
- Watch for Loiterers or Repeat Visitors:
- Criminals sometimes return to retrieve devices or monitor them.
- Suspicious Items:
- Report and Secure the Area If we find something suspicious:
- We Do NOT touch or remove the suspected skimming device — it could be evidence or wired dangerously, until Local Police arrive on site.
- Secure the Area:
- Prevent further use of the vestibule or ATM.
- Place a warning sign or barricade if available.
- Call Supervisor or Bank Security Team and report to Local Police Immediately.
- Preserve Surveillance Footage from before and after the suspected tampering
- Tools Our Guards Are Provided With:
- Flashlight
- Mirror-on-a-stick (to check under ATM panels)
- Bluetooth scanner app/device
- Camera to document findings
- Disposable gloves (to avoid contaminating evidence)
- Daily Log Example (for Record Keeping):
Date Time Location Status Notes 2025-05-15 08:30 AM 123 Main St Vestibule Clear No tampering All components secure 2025-05-15 10:15 AM 456 Oak Ave ATM Suspicious Card slot loose reported to HQ
Areas Served
Safeguard Protected operates throughout the New York City area, including:
- Manhattan: Serving high-traffic commercial areas and financial districts.
- Brooklyn: Providing security for residential and mixed-use developments.
- Queens: Ensuring safety at diverse banking locations.
- The Bronx: Offering protection for community banks and financial institutions.
- Staten Island: Securing suburban banking facilities.
- Nassau and Suffolk Counties: Extending services to Long Island banking locations.