Australian ATM fraud easy
(21 October 2009 – Australia) An international expert on ATM card skimming gangs has warned Australia that it is viewed as an easy target because of large withdrawal limits and old ATM technology.
Chief Inspector Elvis Tudose, from the Romanian police, delivered the warning at the National Identity Crime Symposium held on the Gold Coast.
Mr Tudose told reporters that international offenders are aware of the punishments a first offender is likely to be given in Australia and the conclusion is the massive profits available far outweigh the consequences.
The gangs discovered Australia’s weaknesses some time ago and think it is an easy target, given the large withdrawal limits on cards and old ATMs, Mr Tudose added.
Criminals often fly to Australia posing as tourists; some criminals also go as far as obtaining citizenship and build a detailed bank of local knowledge to assist their operations.
Mr Tudose said an improvement in penalties and greater education and awareness were needed to crack down on the crime.
A gang caught recently in Victoria was skimming as much as $AU32,000 a day from Australian accounts.
Mr Tudose told reporters that international offenders are aware of the punishments a first offender is likely to be given in Australia and the conclusion is the massive profits available far outweigh the consequences.
The gangs discovered Australia’s weaknesses some time ago and think it is an easy target, given the large withdrawal limits on cards and old ATMs, Mr Tudose added.
Criminals often fly to Australia posing as tourists; some criminals also go as far as obtaining citizenship and build a detailed bank of local knowledge to assist their operations.
Mr Tudose said an improvement in penalties and greater education and awareness were needed to crack down on the crime.
A gang caught recently in Victoria was skimming as much as $AU32,000 a day from Australian accounts.
Subscribe