Imagine walking up to a familiar Automated Teller Machine - perhaps on your way to work or while shopping, and apparently conducting a transaction just as you have hundreds of times before, only to find that you have unwittingly given thieves information that will allow them to empty your checking or savings account. It is a scary thought, yet one that is becoming increasingly real.

Here is how the scam works. The thieves install a skimming device over top of the existing card slot at the targeted ATM. The false card slot is made to match the color and texture of the ATM and is very thin so it does not change the profile of the machine in a noticeable way once installed. The device actually contains an additional card reader to copy your card information from the magnetic strip on the card.

The skimmer does not interfere with you successfully completing a transaction, e.g. withdrawing cash, or checking your account balance. So you will not necessarily be aware that your account information has been stolen.

Additionally, a micro-camera is installed on the ATM in a position that will allow it to monitor the keypad, capturing your PIN as it is entered, and transmit that data to the thief.
Micro cameras have been found in false mirrors positioned over the keypad. Also, fraudulent pamphlet holders with a camera inside, have been found attached to the ATM machine.

With the stolen account information and PIN this form of identity theft allows your card to be duplicated and your account accessed by the criminals.

The Secret Service and other law enforcement agencies are investigating ATM skimming scams in New York, Virginia, Washington DC, Pennsylvania and Maryland. Given the level of sophistication of these criminals, it is likely spreading and may become a problem nationwide. An executive at an identity theft protection firm indicates that ATM skimming is growing and may be reaching the proportions of a billion dollar problem.

Here is what you can do to reduce the likelihood of having your identity and account information stolen:

* Pay attention to the front of machines.
If it looks different from others in the area (for example, it has an extra mirror on the face), has sticky residue on it (potentially from a device attached to it) or extra signage, use a different machine and notify bank management with your concerns.

* Notice how it feels when inserting your card.
If it's difficult or you feel resistance, it could mean that a skimming device is present.

* If you think the area around the card entry slot looks peculiar, pull on it.
If it comes off or loosens, alert bank management but try to leave the machine as you found it. Leaving the evidence in place could help authorities track down the criminals.

* Notice how it feels to type in your PIN code.
If it's difficult to punch the keys, it could mean that a keypad overlay is present.

* Cover your hand as you type in your PIN.
If a camera is present or someone is trying to look over your shoulder, this will obstruct their view.

Your greatest protection simply comes with being aware of your surroundings at all times. ATM skimming devices have been found attached to machines at branch bank locations.

So, whether at a familiar ATM, at a gas pump, or at a local convenience store... anywhere where the device requires you to insert your card allowing the magnetic strip to be scanned... it pays to be attentive.

(Note: At CreditGumbo.com you can see photos of Automated Teller Machines that been outfitted with the scamming devices.)