Scammers Have Started Targeting Uzbeks Near ATMs, Asking to Withdraw Money. Here’s Why You Shouldn’t Do It

This article is also available in: Русский (Russian) Uzbek

Scammers are becoming increasingly inventive, and one of the new schemes involves asking for your bank card for “temporary use” in exchange for a substantial “reward.” Tempting, right? Let’s break down why this is a dangerous trap.

Imagine this situation: at the ATM, a person approaches, claiming they forgot their card at home. They ask for help withdrawing cash, promising to transfer not only the required amount to your card but also an extra 200-300 thousand sums as a thank you. At first glance, it seems like a good deal, but in reality, it’s a trap.

Blogger and founder of the platform “Potrebitel.uz” Lilia Nikolenko explained how this scheme works.

How the Scheme Works: What Are Scammers Really Doing?

Scammers use “rented” cards to withdraw stolen money. First, they transfer funds from the victims’ accounts to a third-party card, then ask you to withdraw it. Essentially, your card becomes the last link in the chain of withdrawing stolen funds, putting you at serious risk.

When law enforcement begins an investigation, the card you provided is the final link in the scam chain. All suspicions fall on you, and proving that you were not involved in the crime becomes extremely difficult.

Precautionary Measures:

1. Use ATMs near bank branches. These locations are better monitored, and scammers tend to avoid them.
2. Watch out for suspicious people near ATMs. If you see someone who looks suspicious or a group of people standing nearby, it’s better to choose a different ATM.
3. Never agree to withdraw money for strangers. Strangers near ATMs might use such requests as a cover for scams.

Most importantly — always keep your card with you and never hand it over to others. Being aware of these schemes can help you protect your money and avoid unnecessary trouble.

The article may contain inaccuracies as it is translated by AI. For more details, please refer to the Russian version of the article. If you notice any inaccuracies, you can send corrections via the Telegram bot: Uzvaibik_bot.