Crime & Safety

Card Skimmers At Gas Pumps: How To Spot Them

See how to spot credit card skimmers and learn simple steps you can take to avoid becoming a victim.

With summer in full swing and travel on the rise, officials are reminding consumers to stay aware and look out for credit card skimmers at the gas pump. Although card skimmers are nothing new, the Federal Trade Commission warned consumers that emerging technology is making them smaller and harder to spot.

Skimmers are small devices that can scan and store data from the magnetic strips on the back of credit and debit cards. Because gas stations are among the last retailers to install fraud-reducing EMV-chip card readers, they remain an attractive target for card-skimming criminals.

But criminals are becoming more sophisticated at hiding these devices. (Get Patch real-time email alerts for the latest news from your California neighborhood. And iPhone users: Check out Patch's new app. Also, be sure to follow your local Patch on Facebook!)

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Skimmers are often found attached to the card readers at gas stations and ATMs. The newest skimmers, however, are being placed internally, completely hidden from unsuspecting customers.

"They're able to put a splice or a device in between the credit card reader and where it goes into the computer," explained Kevin Porter, an inspector with San Diego County's Department of Agriculture, Weights and Measures. "They're able to then steal the credit card numbers as people use them."

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Whether you're headed on a road trip or just down the street, there are simple steps you can take to avoid becoming a victim and leaving behind valuable information at the pump.

Tips For Protecting Yourself From Skimmers

1. Choose a pump that's close to the store. Criminals are less likely to tamper with pumps near security cameras or in sight of the cashier.

2. Look for audit tape. Make sure the gas pump panel is closed and doesn't show signs of tampering. Many gas stations now have security seals over the panel. If the pump panel is opened, the label will read "void," which means someone has tampered with the machine.

3. Take a closer look at the card reader. Does it look different? Just to be sure, physically pull on the card reader to make sure it's permanent. If it moves, report it to the attendant and use a different pump.

4. Go inside. Pay with the cashier instead of at the pump.

5. Use cash instead of a card. If you don't feel comfortable, pay with cash.

If your credit card has been compromised, report it to your bank or card issuer. Also consider placing a fraud alert or a credit freeze on your credit report, which requires businesses to confirm your identity before approving applications in your name.

Don't forget to file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission. Complaints from consumers help the FTC detect patterns of fraud and abuse.


Watch: ATM Scams: What To Look For



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