Whether you are going out to dinner, getting gas or on a relaxing vacation, you typically don’t think about having your credit card information compromised, but you should! Today’s digital world is filled with scammers who spend their days focusing primarily on stealing credit card information through the process known as “skimming.” Imagine going to a nice dinner, only to find out later that money was withdrawn from your account! You are completely shocked to find out your card has been skimmed. There are some simple tips on how to prevent credit card skimming.

What is Skimming?

Let’s begin by explaining what “skimming” is and how it is used. The more you know, the better the prevention. Thieves use a skimming device that can be placed in/on the credit card readers at ATM machines, gas pumps, grocery stores, and even Redbox movie rental machines that reads and stores all of your credit card information. The thieves then proceed to make fraudulent charges with YOUR credit card information.

Since you don’t know what has happened, you are blindsided by your credit card bill and the charges that you DID NOT make. Be aware that sometimes waiters or store associates can even hold a skimming device in their hands so that when you hand over your credit card for payment, they run it through their skimmer which stores all of YOUR information for illegal use.

Ways to Prevent Skimming  

With technological advances, skimming can happen quickly: data is transferred to the device in a matter of seconds. Below are some ways to help avoid skimming:

  • When paying with credit or debit cards, look at the ATM for anything that seems suspicious. (Ex: a small camera near the keypad, a fake keypad on top of the original keypad, or an ill fitting, loose ATM)
  • Determine what a “skimming” device looks like. There are actual pictures of skimmers so that if you do see one, you will recognize it. They are typically very small in nature, for the purpose of concealment.
  • When using a credit card reader, use your hand to conceal typing your personal identification number (PIN) so that if there was a camera to record your information, it will be hidden by your hand.
  • Do not use ATMs that appear underused or that are attached to unoccupied buildings.

Safety First!

There is no way to completely avoid being the victim of credit/debit card fraud, but you can follow safety guidelines to reduce your chances and protect yourself. Be aware that your credit and debit cards never have to leave your possession to get skimmed. To learn more about the prevention/protection of credit card skimming, please contact our office at 866-869-3335.

 

 

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