How to Spot and Avoid Credit Card Skimmers
In the wake of data breaches at Target, Home Depot and other retailers, it’s more important than ever to be vigilant about protecting your personal information. One way to do this is to keep an eye out for credit card skimmers when you’re shopping. If you know how to spot them, you can avoid becoming a victim. In this article, we discuss some tips for detecting and avoiding credit card skimmers. Let’s start!
What is a credit card skimmer?
Credit card skimmers are devices used by thieves to steal credit card information from unsuspecting victims. The skimmer attaches to card readers at gas stations or other places where people use their credit cards.
The skimmer reads the credit card information while the victim inserts their card into the card reader. The thief then has the stolen credit card information and can use it to make fraudulent purchases.
How do skimmers steal credit card and debit card information?
Thieves use skimming devices connected to card readers to steal credit and debit card information. The skimmer is placed over the card reader on an ATM or other device and reads data from the magnetic stripe on the card. The thief can then use the information to create a fake card or access the account associated with the card.
What are the risks of credit and debit card skimmers?
Skimmers pose a risk to credit and debit cards when used at the pump and other locations. Dispenser skimmers are small devices that plug into the dispenser’s credit card reader and collect data from the magnetic stripe on the card.
This data can be used to clone the card or access the bank account associated with the card. 35.4% of all credit card fraud cases in the US are related to counterfeit credit cards.
The best ways to spot a credit or debit card skimmer
Now that you know what a skimmer is and how it works, let’s take a look at some of the best ways to spot card skimming devices at ATMs, gas stations, or anywhere else:
1. Look for unusual things
Look for something that looks out of place or different than usual. If something on the card reader looks different than other devices you’ve used, that could be a sign it’s been tampered with. Something to look out for a lot with Card Skimmers is a small, hidden camera. The thief can place the camera near the keyboard to capture your PIN number as you type it.
2. Examine closely
Inspect the ATM or credit card terminal for loose, bent, or damaged parts. If you see anything suspicious, do not use the machine as a skimmer may be attached. And if you suspect your card has been skimmed, report it to your bank or credit card issuer immediately.
3. Check the keyboard
Check if the keyboard feels spongy or loose when you press the keys. This is another sign that the machine may have been tampered with. If the keyboard feels different, it could mean that a skimming device is connected to it.
4. Security tape or sticker for dispenser
When you’re at the pump, look for a security tape or sticker over the card reader. This is usually a sign that the pump has been checked and approved by the service station. If the security seal is broken or missing, do not use this pump as it means a thief may have tampered with it.
5. Feel around the reader
Sometimes a skimmer is attached to the card reader with double-sided tape. If you feel around the reader, you may see a raised or uneven surface. This is another sign that the machine may have been tampered with.
Useful ways to avoid a credit card skimmer
Now that you know how to spot a credit card skimming device, let’s take a look at some useful ways to avoid them:
6. Use credit instead of debit
Whenever possible, use credit instead of direct debit at gas stations or ATMs. Credit cards are better protected from fraud by credit card companies than debit cards, making you less likely to be held responsible for fraudulent charges. This gives you peace of mind that you are not at risk of losing your hard-earned cash.
7. Use your hand to cover your PIN
When entering your PIN, cover the keypad with your hand to prevent hidden cameras from seeing you. As mentioned earlier in this article, skimming devices often include a small camera to capture your PIN number. By covering the keypad you can prevent the thief from getting your pin number.
8. Choose your ATM wisely
Be wary of ATMs in dimly lit areas or places where not many people are around. These are ideal conditions for skimmers to work undetected. In an area that is not well lit or populated, the thief has a reduced chance of being caught.
9. Trust your gut feeling
Be aware of your surroundings and trust your gut – if something feels like the ATM, cancel the transaction and report it to the bank immediately. It’s much better to be safe than sorry. If you need to withdraw cash, just go to another ATM.
10. Download a skimmer scanner
Before using an ATM, download a skimmer detection app like Skimmer Scanner so you can scan for Bluetooth devices that may be lurking nearby. You can find skimmer detection apps in both the Google Play Store and the Apple App Store.
Can a card reader skimmer read a chip card?
Chip-enabled cards are less prone to skimming at ATMs, gas pumps, and other locations because the information on the chip is more difficult to copy. Still, it is possible for thieves to skim smart cards with the right equipment.
To avoid having your card information skimmed at ATMs, gas pumps and other locations, always check for signs of tampering before using a chip card reader.
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