Urgent: South Pasadena Wells Fargo Hit by ATM Skimmers Twice in One Week

In a concerning development for the residents of South Pasadena, an ATM skimmer was discovered inside an ATM at the Wells Fargo bank located on the 1000 block of Fair Oaks Avenue. This incident, reported on Friday, August 23, marks the second time within a week that such a device has been found at the same location. The South Pasadena police have indicated that the skimmer was likely placed between 5 p.m. on August 22 and 9:15 a.m. on August 23.

The previous skimmer was inserted between 5:30 p.m. on August 20 and 8:30 a.m. on August 21. These skimming devices, which resemble card readers, are designed to capture data from the magnetic stripe of debit cards, including the personal identification number (PIN) used to verify the cardholder’s identity.

“Like the previous incident, the suspect did not retrieve the skimmer, and it is unknown if the suspects obtained any information,” stated Crime Prevention Officer Richard Lee. As a precaution, Officer Lee advised those who used the ATM during the specified hours to consider changing their PIN and to review their bank accounts for any suspicious activity.

Security Measures and Public Awareness

Officer Lee also provided several tips for ATM users to help them identify signs of tampering. “Before using an ATM, look closely at the machine,” he advised. Thieves often place a façade over the card reader, which can come off if pulled. Additionally, ATM users should be aware of hidden cameras that might be positioned to capture PIN entries, as well as “shoulder surfers,” individuals who stand behind customers to watch their transactions.

“Thieves may also attempt to distract you during your transaction, causing you to leave the ATM without taking your debit card,” Lee warned. These tactics are part of a broader strategy employed by criminals to gain access to personal banking information.

Impact on the Community

The repeated discovery of skimmers at the same Wells Fargo location has raised concerns among South Pasadena residents about the security of their financial transactions. The incidents underscore the importance of vigilance and the need for enhanced security measures at ATMs.

Residents are urged to report any suspicious activity immediately to the police and to follow the recommended precautions to protect their financial information. The South Pasadena police department is actively investigating these incidents and working to identify the suspects involved.

Our Advice on the City

For those visiting South Pasadena, it is essential to remain cautious when using ATMs. Always inspect the machine for any signs of tampering and cover the keypad when entering your PIN. For seasoned travelers, consider using ATMs located inside banks or well-lit, busy areas to reduce the risk of encountering skimming devices.

In conclusion, the discovery of ATM skimmers at the South Pasadena Wells Fargo serves as a stark reminder of the importance of vigilance in protecting personal financial information. By staying informed and taking proactive measures, both residents and visitors can help safeguard their accounts from potential fraud.