Student Research Spotlight: ATM and Point-of-Sale Skimming

Researching a Growing Form of Fraud

Under the guidance of Cybersecurity Associate Professor Ismail Onat, Ph.D., Ciaccio conducted research examining ATM and point-of-sale (POS) skimming, a growing and costly form of cyber-enabled financial crime.

According to the FBI, skimming is a form of fraud in which criminals secretly attach or place devices inside ATMs, point-of-sale machines or fuel pumps to collect card information and capture customers’ PINs. The stolen data is then used to produce counterfeit cards or to carry out unauthorized transactions and withdraw money from of victims’ accounts.

Ciaccio’s research explored how the simple act of inserting a bank, credit or debit card into an ATM or payment terminal can expose people to identity theft and embezzlement. She analyzed:

• Common skimming techniques used by cybercriminals
• The profiles of typical offenders and victims
• The vulnerabilities present in traditional ATM and POS systems

Building on this analysis, she evaluated existing countermeasures and proposed forward-looking solutions to reduce risk.

Advancing Cybersecurity Through Innovation

One aspect of Ciaccio’s research was a focus on preventive technology. She recommended the broader adoption of cardless and biometrically secure ATMs and POS terminals, using tools such as:

• Fingerprint authentication
• Retina or biometric scans

These measures, she argues, could significantly strengthen system access controls and reduce opportunities for skimming-related crime -- demonstrating how cybersecurity research can directly inform real-world prevention strategies.

Presenting Research on a National Stage

Ciaccio’s work did not stop at the classroom level. Her research paper was published through the Orion Policy Institute. Ciaccio also presented it at the annual conference of the American Society of Criminology.

“I never imagined that a semester paper would be picked up and turned into a publication,” she said. “This opportunity has significantly improved my academic confidence, enhanced my research skills, and deepened my understanding of cybercrime.”

Faculty Mentorship That Makes a Difference

Collaboration with faculty has been a defining feature of Ciaccio’s experience. Scranton’s cybersecurity master’s program emphasizes mentorship, drawing on professors with extensive experience in such areas as certified ethical hacking, cyberterrorism and cybersecurity operations.

These professional backgrounds bring classroom concepts to life and provide students with practical insights that go far beyond textbooks.

“The master’s program enables me to further my education and connections with professors at a deeper level,” she said. “Their experience gives practical and invaluable meaning to what we learn in class.”

Through her research and mentorship experiences, Ciaccio has developed advanced research skills strengthened her technical understanding of cybercrime and clarified her long-term goals. Inspired by her success, she now plans to continue her education and pursue a doctorate.

Her journey highlights Scranton’s commitment to preparing students not just for careers, but for leadership roles in research, policy, and advanced cybersecurity practice.

Ready to advance your cybersecurity career? Explore the Cybercrime Investigation and Cybersecurity master’s today!