Paying at the pump is common and convenient, but it’s been embraced by consumers and crooks. This, unfortunately, can be a nightmare for victims.
According to the FBI, credit card skimming costs consumers and financial institutions more than $1 billion annually. Gas pumps are an appealing target to install them as they’re outside and away from the watchful eye of clerks.
Given this, it’s not surprising to learn that reports of gas station skimmers are common. Just a few weeks ago, a skimming device was found at a 7-Eleven pump in Fort Pierce, Florida. In June, authorities in Iowa discovered skimmers inside gas pumps at two Git and Go convenience stores.
Skimmers steal credit card data and the FBI noted many are “usually attached to the internal wiring of the machine and aren’t visible to the customer.” This makes it hard to avoid being a victim, but authorities released several tips to minimize your chances for falling prey.
How to avoid becoming a victim
Simple changes can make a big difference as authorities said using gas pumps that are close to the store and in direct view of the attendant are safer. This is because they’re less likely to be targeted by criminals as they carry a higher risk of getting caught.
Likewise, paying inside is safer for the same reason. If you’re in a rush, using tap-to-pay is more secure than inserting your card. However, some pumps don’t support this.
Speaking of best payment practices, the government advises drivers to run their debit cards as credit cards. They also suggest covering the keypad when you enter your PIN as there could be a pinhole camera monitoring your every move.
While some skimmers are installed inside the pumps, others slide over the real card reader. As a result, authorities recommend examining the keypad and looking for any inconsistencies such as odd colors, materials, or shapes. They even suggest pulling at the edges of the keypad to ensure it’s legit before entering your card.
Drivers should be particularly wary of skimmers in tourist areas, and they should regularly monitor their credit card and bank accounts for unauthorized transactions.
