Fraud at gas stations: how not to become a victim

Before paying for gas at a gas station, take a closer look at the device. Are there any additional devices on the panel or a number of additional devices, for example, unnecessary lighting fixtures? Are there mirrors or cameras nearby? All these little things may indicate the presence of a skimmer - a reading device. Such devices help fraudsters in stealing credit card data.

Photo: Shutterstock

Criminals are creative

Skimmers come in different shapes and sizes, and can also be installed both on the pump and inside it at any filling station.

"I wouldn't say they have just one method," said Sergeant Derek Nelson, a computer and digital evidence analyst.

Nelson says that skimmers installed inside pumps usually remain in use longer. And, depending on their technology, some have the ability to wirelessly transfer stolen data to the device owner.

As for external skimmers, they are designed to be read and are placed on the slot where you swipe the card.

Fraudsters usually have to come back and take back these types of skimmers, Nelson said.

External devices can be used for only a few hours in one place.

Take a closer look at the look

Card readers are sturdy and should not open. If this happens, it’s probably skimmers. If you encounter one of these devices, notify the company and call the appropriate local police authority.

Nelson also suggested to carefully consider the integrity of the inspection sticker on the pump. As a rule, they are often placed on the panel at eye level. If the sticker is torn, cut or missing, report it to the station attendant.

As for the pump itself, if you see scratched signs or something strange with a card reader, service panel or key hole, inform the staff about this and use another pump.

In some publications offer to move the card when inserted into the reader to disrupt the skimmer.

Consumer Reports I wrote in 2013 year that the main prize for thieves is the card number and PIN. Thus, never enter your password on the pump, says the publication. Use a cash or debit card instead of a credit card.

In addition, the pump keypad can also be programmed to steal financial information. Cameras installed near or on pumps can record your PIN.

Skimmers can also be found at ATMs and shops, that is, wherever you pay with your card.

Scammers do not stay in the same state

A month ago, the US Department of Justice reported that two men were charged with fraud and identity theft under aggravating circumstances. They rented a car and traveled around Florida, Alabama, Tennessee and Virginia, installing skimmers along the way at gas stations.

They used the stolen financial information to “activate loans, withdraw cash and purchase debit and gift cards in several places,” the Justice Ministry said.

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