KARACHI: A well-organized network of IT experts suspected of hacking Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) and defrauding unsuspecting victims has been apprehended in Karachi. The operation, led by the Special Investigation Unit (SIU), also resulted in the arrest of a female accomplice.
The gang’s tactic involved loitering outside banks and tampering with ATMs. They often posed as helpful bystanders, extending assistance to those whose cards were trapped in the machines. During these interactions, they successfully obtained critical information, including victims’ passwords.
One notable incident in Nazimabad illustrated the gang’s methods, wherein they swindled an elderly person out of Rs450,000. Surveillance footage captured the involvement of a woman along with two other suspects in this crime.
Police reports indicate that this group has executed similar scams in other cities, including Lahore and Islamabad. Efforts are underway to fully dismantle their operation. Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant when using ATMs and to avoid seeking help from strangers.
Experts emphasize the risks associated with choosing easily memorable passwords, as this can result in considerable financial losses. Users are advised not to select personal information such as names or birthdays as their PINs.
A recent incident in India highlights this warning, where a suspect was detained for stealing large sums by using PINs derived from victims’ birth dates.
Officials continue to underscore the necessity of safeguarding personal information to reduce the likelihood of such crimes.
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