Here’s How to Identify a Credit Card Skimmer

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Thanks to technology, it’s far easier for thieves to get their hands on your data and your money now than it ever was before. You can be minding your own business, filling your car’s gas tank in preparation for a busy day of running errands, and later find out your bank account or credit card has been compromised as a result. How does this happen?

The culprit is credit card skimmers, which are devices that are installed illegally on ATMs or point-of-sale terminals to steal PINs or other account data. The FBI reports that this means of theft costs us more than $1 billion per year. Let’s take a look at how you can spot an ATM or payment terminal that’s been tampered with, as well as learn a few ways to avoid losing money to this scam.

If you see these signs of tampering, watch out

If you’re in the habit of paying at the pump for your gas (I get it; it’s faster and a lot more convenient), you may be playing with fire. Skimmer devices connected to fuel pumps usually aren’t visible, and are instead attached to internal wiring, per the FBI. Any information collected from your credit or debit card will be transferred wirelessly or downloaded by the thieves later.

Thankfully, there may be visible signs that an ATM or point-of-sale terminal has been tampered with:

• If you notice anything scratched, crooked, or otherwise damaged, that could be a sign of trouble.
• For ATMs, the skimmer generally fits right over the original card reader, except it may be curving outward (convex) from the machine, while the original card reader curved inward (concave).
• Be on the lookout for a keypad that is loosely fit in place, as it could have been added over top of the original. A scammer’s keypad is often used to record keystrokes, leaving your PIN vulnerable.
• They’re a lot harder to spot, but thieves have likely included a hidden camera alongside their modifications to the ATM or payment terminal. This will be to record you typing in that PIN too. It could have been added to the machine or a nearby light fixture.

Pay for your purchases and withdraw cash safely

Here are a few ways you can keep your money safe when paying by card:

• Consider using a credit card whenever possible. Credit cards offer more robust financial protections than debit cards. Plus, when you pay by credit card, you’re in effect borrowing money from the credit card issuer, rather than tapping your own checking account.
• Be cautious in touristy or otherwise busy areas. It’s a lot easier for thieves to get away with this scam in places where people may be distracted and not fully engaged with their surroundings.
• Pay inside at the gas station or use the ATM inside the bank. I know it can be a drag to go inside and wait in line instead of paying at the pump, but it could mean keeping your money safe. The same goes for ATMs. If you can visit your bank during its open hours, you’ll find a safer ATM inside. It’s a lot harder for thieves to tamper with a machine that’s being watched by employees.
• Use cards with chips. Skimmers are more likely to target magnetic strip cards, as these are less secure.
• Cover the keypad when you enter your PIN. This is just in case a hidden camera is recording your movements — and your PIN.

Aside from the above tips, it’s also a swell idea to keep an eye on your financial accounts. Check in regularly on your bank account and credit card accounts to make sure you don’t see any unfamiliar charges. If you do, contact your bank or credit company immediately. Being a bit more mindful and engaging your powers of observation can go a long way toward keeping your money and data safe.

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