Card Skimming Scams: What They Are and How To Protect Yourself

Card skimming scams can happen to anyone. Learn how to protect yourself.

Scammers can attach tiny devices on card readers to steal your information right under your nose. Then, they can quickly drain your account and steal your identity before you notice anything is wrong. Learn how to spot the signs of card skimming so you can protect yourself against this scam.

What is card skimming?

Card skimmers can be attached anywhere you swipe your card, such as an ATM, gas pump, vending machine or grocery checkout. These devices take data from your card’s magnetic strip. When a card is skimmed using a rigged card reader, your personal information can be stolen. This includes your name, card number and expiration date.

How scammers use stolen card information

Fraudsters may use your card data to:

  1. Make authorized transactions
  2. Sell your information to other scammers
  3. Engage in identity theft
  4. Open counterfeit cards in your name

Common Warning Signs

Skimming happens without your knowledge, making it easy for scammers to fly under the radar. Luckily, there are some signs you can look out for when you’re making your next transaction.

1. Remote Locations

Scammers tend to target ATMs and gas pumps that are in less populated areas, because they are less likely to get caught. Tip: At the gas station, choose a pump closest to the building or within the attendant’s line of sight. These pumps are less likely to be targeted by scammers.

2. Unfamiliar Charges

Frequently checking your bank account activity will help you spot fraudulent charges before it’s too late. Take advantage of your bank’s online banking or mobile app so you can stay on top of your account without having to wait for a monthly statement.

3. Loose Card Readers

You can check if a card reader is loose by wiggling it. If it is loose, has broken parts or looks suspicious, it may have been tampered with. Avoid using it and let the business know. Skimming is very common at gas pumps – visit the Federal Trade Commission's website to see what a skimmer looks like at a gas pump.

How to Protect Yourself

1. Pay a Different Way

Using cash ensures your card information stays safe. If you are at the gas station and prefer to use a card instead of cash, pay inside with the attendant instead of at the pump. If you need to use an ATM, go to your bank’s branch location.

2. Use a Contactless Payment Method or Tap to Pay

Cards with an EMV chip offer more protection from fraud because they encrypt your information. Using a tap to pay method or digital wallet, such as Apple Pay, also minimizes your risk.

3. Use a Credit Card

Credit cards are slightly more protected than debit cards from fraud, since using your credit card doesn’t take money directly out of your account.

4. Protect your PIN

Scammers may use hidden cameras to try to see your PIN number. Cover the keypad with your hand when you type in your PIN to prevent them from capturing it.

5. Account Alerts

Setting up account alerts will notify you of any suspicious activity. Be sure to file a fraud claim with your bank if you notice any unusual charges.

Make it a habit to check your account activity regularly to spot anything suspicious. If you are a victim of card skimming, contact your bank or credit card provider immediately.

The information provided in these articles is intended for informational purposes only. It is not to be construed as the opinion of Central Bancompany, Inc., and/or its subsidiaries and does not imply endorsement or support of any of the mentioned information, products, services, or providers. All information presented is without any representation, guaranty, or warranty regarding the accuracy, relevance, or completeness of the information.