ATM Skimming in Urban Areas
Skimmed ATMs in City Centers
In Norway, scammers attach skimming devices to ATMs in busy locations like Oslo's central station or Bergen bus terminals, capturing card details from tourists withdrawing Norwegian Krone (NOK). Devices are often placed on ATMs near supermarkets or tourist offices, blending with the machine's design, and scammers may use hidden cameras to record PINs. This is more common in winter when fewer people notice tampering due to gloves and crowds.
- Inspect the ATM card slot and keypad for any loose parts before use, especially in Oslo or Bergen where ATMs are frequent in shopping districts.
- Use ATMs inside banks or well-lit areas during daylight, and opt for contactless payments with cards or mobile apps, which are widely accepted in Norway.
- Cover the PIN entry with your hand and monitor your bank statements regularly via Norwegian banking apps, as local banks like DNB offer real-time fraud alerts.
Fake Online Booking for Activities
Phishing for Fjord Tours
Scammers in Norway create fake websites mimicking legitimate tour operators for fjord cruises or Northern Lights trips, targeting tourists searching online. They demand upfront payments in NOK via unsecure links, then disappear; for example, a fake site might advertise a Sognefjord cruise for 500 NOK but provide no service, using stolen payment details for further fraud. This is prevalent during peak seasons like summer when demand is high.
- Book directly through official Norwegian websites like VisitNorway or verified operators such as Fjord Tours, and verify the URL for 'https' and legitimate seals.
- Use secure payment methods like credit cards with fraud protection, which are standard in Norway, and avoid public WiFi for bookings by using mobile data.
- Check reviews on trusted platforms like TripAdvisor and confirm operator licenses through the Norwegian Tourism Board before paying, especially for trips starting from Oslo or Bergen.