A group of fraudsters has been targeting senior citizens at isolated Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) in Hyderabad and nearby areas by pretending to offer assistance during cash withdrawals. After gaining the victims’ trust, the criminals secretly exchange the victims’ debit cards with similar-looking cards. They later use the stolen cards and the victims’ Personal Identification Numbers (PINs) to withdraw money from their bank accounts. Police have warned citizens, especially elderly people, to remain alert and avoid accepting help from strangers at ATMs.
How the Fraud Was Carried Out
According to the investigation, the gang carefully selected ATMs located in less crowded places where security was limited. The criminals waited for elderly customers who appeared unfamiliar with ATM operations or who needed help while using the machine.
One member of the gang would approach the victim and politely offer assistance with the transaction. While pretending to help insert the card or operate the ATM, another member distracted the victim. During this distraction, the fraudster secretly replaced the victim’s debit card with another card that looked almost identical.
In many cases, the criminals also observed the victim entering the PIN by standing nearby or pretending to guide them through the transaction. Once the victim left the ATM with the fake card, the gang quickly visited other ATMs and withdrew large amounts of money using the original card.
Police Investigation
After receiving several complaints from victims, Hyderabad police launched an investigation by examining ATM surveillance footage from different locations. Investigators noticed a similar pattern in multiple cases, where the same individuals were seen following elderly customers and entering ATMs shortly after them.
The police traced the suspects by analysing CCTV recordings, bank transaction details, and vehicle movements. During the investigation, officers recovered several stolen debit cards, cash, mobile phones, and other materials believed to have been used in the fraud.
Authorities believe the gang may have targeted victims across Hyderabad as well as surrounding districts, making the operation more widespread than initially suspected.
Impact on Victims
Most victims were senior citizens who depended on their savings and pension money. Many realized they had been cheated only after receiving bank messages showing unauthorized withdrawals. Since the debit cards had already been swapped, victims often believed they still possessed their original cards until they attempted another transaction.
The financial losses caused significant hardship, especially for retired individuals living on fixed incomes.
Police Safety Advice
Police have advised the public to take the following precautions:
Never accept help from strangers while using an ATM.
Cover the keypad when entering your PIN.
Check that the debit card returned by the ATM is your own before leaving.
Use ATMs located inside bank branches or in busy, well-monitored areas whenever possible.
Immediately block your debit card if you suspect it has been exchanged.
Report suspicious persons or unusual activity at ATMs to the nearest police station or bank.
Regularly monitor bank account transactions and enable SMS or mobile app alerts.
