How I Trick ATM Users to Steal Their PINs, Suspect

A man suspected of fraud has shared how he stole bank customers’ PINs by pretending to help them use ATMs in Calabar, Cross River State.

The suspect, who did not reveal his name, explained his actions in a statement from the Cross River State Police Command. He focused on customers needing help at ATM points, took their cards, and watched them enter their PINs before leaving.

ASP Sunday Eitokpah, the Public Relations Officer for the Cross River State Police Command, shared this information in a video posted on the command’s Facebook page on Tuesday.

Eitokpah said police arrested the suspect on October 6, 2026, for defrauding unsuspecting ATM users.

Describing his method, the suspect said he approached customers who looked like they needed assistance. He took advantage of their trust.

"I go to the ATM machine to wait for gullible customers who believe whatever I say and those looking for help too," he said.

He continued, "If you ask me for help, I put the ATM on the cardless transaction mode and take your card. You’ll think your card is still there, but it’s not."

The suspect watched as customers chose transactions and entered their PINs. He explained, "You will pick a transaction you want to do. It could be withdrawal, transfer, or inquiry. When you select any of these, I will leave while you enter your password."

Eitokpah said the suspect memorised customers’ PINs as they entered them. After that, he left the ATM with the information needed to commit fraud later. Customers later realised their cards were missing and that money had been taken from their accounts.

The police spokesperson added that the suspect worked with a getaway driver, who is still being searched for.

He mentioned that the divisional police officer in charge of the area had been monitoring the suspect and meeting with bank managers to discuss reported fraud at ATM points.

The police are advising the public to be careful when using ATMs and not to give their cards or PINs to strangers offering help.