Police warn of suspicious device found attached to area ATM

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Police are trying figure out who put a suspicious item on a Wilmington ATM over the weekend, warning the community to be on the lookout for devices like it.

In a release, a Wilmington Police spokeswoman said they got a call from bank security officers about the device they believe is a “skimming device” used to collect card data found on the front of the ATM at the First Citizens Bank at 1910 Eastwood Road.

Police believe this is a skimming device someone installed on at ATM at First Citizens Bank at 1910 Eastwood Road in Wilmington on Aug. 8, 2015. (Photo: WPD)

Police are warning ATM users and banks to watch out for these types of devices, which can scan and store credit card data from a magnetic strip on the back of the card. In the release, police said they recommend inspecting any ATM before making a transaction, as the devices are often held on by weak adhesives that make it seem loose.

The spokeswoman said police recommend using your hand to cover the keypad while entering your PIN to cover the number from any potential recording devices. Police ask anyone who may see unusual devices attached to an ATM to contact bank or law enforcement agencies.

Wilmington Police are investigating the incident, and ask anyone with information to call them at (910)343-3609 or Text-A-Tip.