August 31st 2024.
A couple has received their punishment for their involvement in a scam that defrauded over $36,000 from unsuspecting victims. The scheme involved installing what are known as "shimmers" in ATM machines in Melbourne and Sydney. These small, metallic devices were cleverly inserted into the card slots of the ATMs to copy the credit card information of those who used them.
Once the data from the magnetic strips and chips was obtained, the two individuals would go to different banks and withdraw money using the stolen information. This continued until the Australian Federal Police were alerted by people who received suspicious packages from the UK, US, and China containing the "shimmers".
After further investigation, it was discovered that the two culprits, both Romanian Nationals, were responsible for installing the devices in various ATMs in Melbourne and Sydney. They would then use the stolen information to withdraw or transfer funds from bank accounts. Police also found a stash of $12,935 in cash, multiple "shimming" devices, fake identity documents, electronic devices, card readers, and sim cards after searching their residence in Sydney.
The man, aged 34, pleaded guilty to multiple charges including possession of a device used to obtain financial information, dealing with the proceeds of crime, and attempting to dishonestly obtain personal financial information. He also admitted to providing false travel documents and giving false information. As a result, he was sentenced to four years and two months in jail with a non-parole period of two years and six months.
Similarly, the woman, aged 33, also pleaded guilty to multiple charges including possession of a device used to obtain financial information, dealing with the proceeds of crime, and attempting to dishonestly obtain personal financial information. She was sentenced to two years and six months in prison and will be eligible for parole in February 2025.
Both individuals are expected to be deported after completing their sentences. This serves as a warning to others who may attempt to commit similar crimes. The Australian Federal Police and other law enforcement agencies will not tolerate such fraudulent activities and will take swift action to bring perpetrators to justice.
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