Thieves steal money from ATMs in Millcreek, Erie

Millcreek Township police are asking people who use ATMs to report any unusual activity from other customers or evidence that someone has tampered with an ATM.

On Oct. 12, thieves stole a “reasonable amount” of cash from ATMs at two banks, one in Millcreek and the other in Erie. Millcreek police, who are investigating the crimes, declined to identify the specific banks or the amount of money stolen.

Unlike many other ATM thefts, the criminals did not steal money from a customer’s account, Millcreek Police Capt. Donald Kucenski said. They stole money that was in the ATM.

“They used counterfeit cards and a device that allowed them to withdraw money after withdrawing from the ATMs,” Kucenski said. “No one’s accounts have been opened.”

The suspects are believed to be from out of town and were traveling through the area that day, Kucenski said.

Millcreek police continue to investigate the crimes. Kucenski declined to say whether there was video footage of the suspects, although he said one of the things people should look for when visiting an ATM is whether the camera lens is smeared with a substance.

“If you see something that looks out of place at an ATM, contact your local law enforcement,” Kucenski said. “That could be a vehicle that takes an extraordinary amount of time at the machine, or a vehicle that repeatedly re-enters the queue after using the ATM.”

Kucenski also said people should contact police if they see someone trying to physically open an ATM or use more than one card to make a transaction.

Tips if you use an ATM

Although these thefts did not involve individual bank accounts, Kucenski recommended taking precautions when using ATMs. Here are some tips from the American Bankers Association:

Protect your ATM card as you would a credit card or checkbook. Don’t leave it lying around the house or on your desk at work.
Do not give ATM details, including your PIN, over the telephone. Your bank or credit union won’t ask you for it.
When using an ATM, take the environment into account. If you notice any suspicious activity in the area, do not use the machine. Only use well-lit ATMs.
Keep your debit card in your hand as you approach the machine. Don’t wait until you arrive to take it out of your wallet or purse.
Inspect the ATM possible skimming devices. Look for sticky residue, scratches, damaged or bent areas, or loose/extra fasteners on the card slot. Also see if there is any noticeable resistance when pressing the keyboard. Stop using the machine if you notice any of these things.
Use your hand or body to shield the ATM keypad when typing your PIN.
Immediately put your money in your pocket, wallet or bag. Don’t stand at the ATM and count it.
Don’t forget to bring your receipt.

Do you have a consumer question that you would like us to help you with? Leave a message with David Bruce at 814-870-1736, email to [email protected] or mail to 205 W. 12th St., Erie, PA 16534.