ATM thieves have hit Sovereign bank in Staten Island, ripping off customers' accounts to the tune of one half million dollars. The surveillance camera captured photos of three men installing skimmer devices and cameras on the bank's ATM which enabled them to capture customers' account and password information.

Skimmers have turned up on bank ATM's, gas pumps and in the pockets of restaurant waiters. However, you can protect your money and your credit.

• Only use the ATM inside your bank.

• When you use an ATM in a public area hold your hand over the keypad when you enter your PIN number to make it impossible for a camera to record the numbers you select.

• Use cash to pay your restaurant bill.

• Go to www.AnnualCreditReport.com to check your FREE credit report every year from each of the three major credit reporting agencies.

• Place a freeze on your credit so that you are alerted if someone tries to open new credit cards or loans under your name. Click here for additional credit freeze information specific to your state of residence.

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