(June 21, 2024) — Detectives have been investigating a major fraud investigation related to skimmers on “point-of-sale” terminals at multiple stores within the last 30 days.
Credit card skimmers are an overlay designed to appear like your average point-of-sale terminal. Credit card skimmers can affect anyone who uses their cards at gas stations, grocery stores, ATMs, etc.. Skimmers are able to read your credit card information when placed on or near a skimming device. While these devices are not securely fixed to the terminals, they can look as though they are a perfect fit for the terminal they are on. A quick visual and physical inspection is the best way to spot a credit card skimmer before you put your card in. It should be noted that in this area specifically, tap-to-pay is typically safer than card insertion.
Detectives went out to 65 stores within our city to check point-of-sale terminals for skimmers. They also educated businesses on what to look for and how to prevent their equipment from being tampered with.
Businesses are encouraged to use colored safety tape to recognize if/when the tape may be covered by an illegal skimming device. They were also educated on possible distraction techniques that may be used while criminals place skimming devices on the terminal. Some of the businesses that detectives visited already had measures in place to keep their customers’ information safe. It is essential to check your credit card statements often and report any fraudulent activity.
For customers or businesses, if you find a skimmer, please call 239-574-3223 so we can further investigate.
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