This story came about a <a href="http://www.myfoxny.com/dpp/news/090202_FBI_Investigates_9_Million_ATM_Scam
“>few days ago, but here’s somewhat of an update/synopsis:
The FBI is reportedly investigating an international ATM (automatic teller machine) scam in which thieves stole millions of dollars from cash machines in 49 cities in a very brief period of time. The scam is believed to be linked to a data security breach at RBS WorldPay, which offers a service allowing employers to pay employees directly to a payment card that works much like a debit card.
The attackers managed to gain access to the system and find a way to clone the cards. The attack was startlingly well-coordinated. In less than one hour (((<—- flash mob))) on November 8, 2008, 130 ATMs in 49 cities around the world (((global flash mob, oh lord-a-mercy))) were accessed using the fraudulent cards. The attackers also managed to do away with the limits on cash withdrawals, so the people retrieving the money from the machines were able to use their cards again and again. All told, just 100 cards were used to steal US $9 million. The people withdrawing the cash are believed to be recruited accomplices who were likely paid small fees.
Via wired.com and myfoxny.com
wow $70,000 per machine.
Al Qaeda?
Dibs on Russian Mafia.
or as they call this in the Boardrooms of Wall Street – a small bonus.
Each of those 100 people collected 4500 $20 bills, on average. 10 bills barely fit in my wallet. I wonder how small that fee was.