ATM gang targets Hyderabad senior citizens, swaps debit cards to loot accounts

Hyderabad police are investigating a series of incidents where a gang has been targeting senior citizens at isolated ATMs, offering help and then swapping their debit cards to drain their accounts. The modus operandi has emerged as a growing concern for law enforcement and banking authorities in the city and surrounding regions.

How the scam works

According to preliminary reports, the gang members position themselves near ATMs that are located in less-trafficked areas, often during late hours or at times when footfall is low. They approach elderly individuals who appear to be struggling with the ATM interface or are unfamiliar with the machine's operation.

Posing as helpful passersby, they offer assistance with the transaction. In the process, they swap the victim's debit card with a dummy or another card, while noting the PIN as the customer enters it. Once the card is in their possession, they withdraw cash or transfer funds from the victim's account, often emptying it within hours.

Victims and areas affected

While the exact number of victims is yet to be confirmed, police sources indicate that several cases have been reported in Hyderabad and some neighbouring districts. The victims are primarily senior citizens, who are often less tech-savvy and more trusting of strangers offering help.

Officials have not yet disclosed the total amount stolen, but preliminary assessments suggest it could run into several lakhs of rupees. The gang appears to operate in a coordinated manner, with members assigned specific roles, including distraction, card swapping, and cash withdrawal.

Police response and investigation

Hyderabad police have registered cases under relevant sections of the Indian Penal Code, including cheating and criminal breach of trust. A special team has been formed to track the gang through CCTV footage from ATMs and surrounding areas.

Investigators are also examining patterns in the withdrawals and are in touch with banks to freeze any accounts where suspicious activity has been detected. Police have urged citizens, especially senior citizens, to be cautious and to never accept assistance from strangers at ATMs.

Advisory for the public

In light of these incidents, banks and police have issued advisories recommending that customers, particularly the elderly, use ATMs located inside bank premises or in well-lit, busy areas. They also advise covering the keypad while entering PINs and not allowing anyone to handle their card.

Family members are being encouraged to assist senior citizens with banking transactions or to help them use digital banking services in a safe environment. The police have also asked the public to report any suspicious activity near ATMs immediately.

As the investigation continues, authorities are working to identify the gang members and prevent further incidents. They have also appealed to witnesses or other victims to come forward with information that could aid in the probe.

Moving forward, the focus will be on strengthening surveillance at vulnerable ATM locations and raising awareness among the elderly about such scams. Police have indicated that they expect to make arrests soon and have asked citizens to remain vigilant until the gang is apprehended.