Customer's Money Lost Due To Skimming, Bank Kepri Is Ready To Take Responsibility

Atmosphere of Bank Kepri Batam branch/Photo: Antara

BATAM - Bank Riau Kepri stated that it would be responsible for the loss of customer money in Batam, Riau Islands (Kepri) due to alleged skimming (theft of data using special tools).

"PT Bank Riau Kepri apologizes to all customers for inconvenience in financial transactions due to skimming at Bank Riau Kepri ATM machines," said Edi Wardana, Head of Bank Riau Kepri Head Office in an official letter received in Batam, Tuesday 10 May.

In the statement, the bank claimed to have taken quick steps by appointing a team from the head office to investigate and identify cases of customers suspected of being skimmed by Automated Teller Machines (ATM) in Batam City.

Currently, Bank Riau Kepri is trying to collect customer data, and the bank ensures that all customers remain safe.

He also appealed that customers do not need to panic, considering that the bank will be responsible for all losses of customers who are proven to be victims of skimming.

"Furthermore, for customers who feel disadvantaged, they are expected to make a report to the nearest Bank Riau Kepri office for further processing in accordance with the provisions," said Edi, quoted by Antara.

To anticipate the occurrence of skimming, Bank Riau Kepri expects customers to change their ATM card PIN regularly.

"Also maintain the confidentiality of customer data such as card numbers, credit/debit card CVV numbers, and OTP numbers (One Time Password) and other customer data to any party, including officers on behalf of Bank Riau Kepri," he said.

In order to avoid data theft, customers are also advised to always be careful when they want to transact at ATM machines.

"When pressing the PIN on an ATM machine, it is recommended to close the number pad by hand, always check first the ATM machine to be used, and if suspicious things are found, you can report directly to the 'call center' of Bank Riau Kepri 1500470," he also said.

Meanwhile, it was previously confirmed that one of the customers, Jali (name withheld) admitted that he had lost Rp12 million in two days. In fact, he did not take the money from the ATM at all.

"I only found out today after being told by a friend that many people have lost money at Bank Riau Kepri. I didn't do all the transactions, the last time I withdrew money was on May 5 at the ATM Plaza HBC Sekupang," said Jali.

Currently, he is taking care of the case of losing money directly to the Riau Kepri Bank Office, along with several other customers. The bank has also explained that the money will be returned to the customer's hands, and will be handled within 21 days at the most.

"We didn't report it to the police, because the bank handled it directly. He said God willing, the funds will return, the important thing is that if the customer feels that there is a lack of money in the account, immediately report it to the bank," said Jali as well.