Did you know that thieves can purchase an automated teller machine (ATM) machine for as little as $4,000? And some ATMs in restaurants, markets or convenience stores are used primarily for stealing personal information from unsuspecting consumers?

The San Diego Better Business Bureau (BBB) says that law enforcement officials in other parts of the country are reporting ID thieves will equip ATMs with scanners that collect information. Is San Diego far behind? After a transaction is completed, the information remains for the thieves to copy onto their own ATM card and use the victim's personal identification number (PIN) to take money from the victim's account.

The BBB recommends using an ATM that is clearly owned and operated by a bank or financial institution. Check out an ATM before using it. If it doesn't look right, don't use it. Look for a company name or 800 number to contact if you have problems. Also, be sure to check your bank statements on a regular basis for any unusual withdrawals. My personal suggestion is to bank Online, so you can check your account every day.

* * * * *

Now that the Southern California grocery workers strike has ended, the San Diego Better Business Bureau (BBB) is cautioning consumers about a fraudulent prize promotion scam that could result in identity theft.

The BBB said it is warning about telemarketers who are expected to phone consumers to announce they have been selected to receive free groceries at their neighborhood supermarket as a goodwill gesture to win back customers after the 20-week-long strike.

However, in order to receive the free prize, the con artist will demand an up-front shipping and handling fee, which must be paid with a credit card or as an electronic withdrawal from a bank account.

"Revealing personal information to a stranger could get your identity stolen and your credit rating damaged," said Gerry Wilson, former BBB president and CEO. "It is not a free prize if you have to pay for it. A prize is something you win with no strings attached."

The BBB said if you are selected to win a prize, you should not be required to pay a fee, purchase any product or provide any financial information in order to receive the prize.

Also, the BBB advises to avoid phoning any 900 number to verify your prize because the number could be a high-priced toll call to an overseas location.

I have noticed a number of stores are sending out special promotions now that the strike has ended, but make sure there are no fees attached. Most are legitimate.