How to Protect Yourself from Credit Card Skimmers

Theft is a crime that has been on the rise recently. There are constantly new stories of home break-ins, online catfishing, and other scams. With our quickly advancing technologies, theft has become more and more streamlined and sneaky. The use of credit card skimmers is an excellent example of this. On their own, skimmers appear unassuming and even official. They can cause a lot of unneeded headaches for victims of the scam. So, how do you protect yourself from credit card skimmers? 

Credit Card Skimmers On the Rise

There has been a surge of viral videos showing skimmers on platforms like Instagram and TikTok. For instance, the video below shows a couple finding a skimmer at their local gas station. 

In the clip, the couple starts picking at the side of the credit card reader. The cashier appears worried by this and starts pushing down on it to keep it in place. The couple argues with the cashier, believing he knows the skimmer is there. 

After some more prying, they can rip the scanner off. Behind the fake is the actual scanner, confirming the couple’s suspicions. The woman says, “We can call the police right now,” to the cashier, clearly shocked by the situation. 

Unfortunately, situations like this happen daily in the U.S., leading many to ask how to spot a credit card skimmer and what to do if you find one. 

How Do You Spot a Credit Card Skimmer? 

Credit card skimmers are diverse in appearance and can function on any existing credit card scanner. Luckily, most aren’t a perfect fit. Many scanners will appear to have a lifted edge or uneven alignment.  

Many gas station scanners feature security tape to prevent skimmer installation. Therefore, checking for broken tape detects scanners. A broken security tape suggests a possible scanner installation. Also, inspect the chip reader for inserted objects; some skimmers can be inserted like a card and left inside the machine.

Lastly, like the couple in the video, you can also do a physical inspection to find credit card skimmers. Some skimmers are lightly taped or glued on. A simple tug is usually enough to peel up the edges of a cheap skimmer. 

How to Avoid Being Skimmed

If you’re wondering how to protect yourself from credit card skimmers, don’t worry; you’re not alone. Numerous online guides explain what to do if someone has skimmed your card.

Before that, experts advise conducting a visual check before paying at a new location. High-traffic places like gas stations are common targets. A quick physical inspection before using your card can help you avoid scams.

There are also a few other things you can do. Going inside to pay for gas or use a stall under more supervision can be safer. Another safety precaution is not giving anyone your card for an extended period. 

Some companies have even created devices that detect credit card skimmers. These detectors often resemble fake credit cards. When you insert them, they indicate whether someone has scanned them once or twice.

Lastly, you should use credit cards instead of debit cards in new places. Credit cards usually have zero liability for fraud, and a quick report can expunge fraudulent charges in the face of scams. Debit cards lack this protection, making them more dangerous for skimmers. 

Skimmers and Cameras

People have also been implementing cameras in their skimming operations in recent years. Hidden cameras tend to be above PIN pads. They allow people to get a complete view of your PIN, making stealing your credit card information easier. 

Most sources, including the FBI, stress the importance of being vigilant about these cameras. While entering your PIN, cover the keypad from above to prevent hidden cameras from capturing your credit card information.

Can You Sue a Store for Having a Credit Card Skimmer? 

It is difficult to trace who installs a credit card skimmer. Some people install skimmers on their machines as a scam, while others secretly install them on store scanners without the owner’s knowledge.

Regardless of who puts a skimmer on a machine, it is the store’s responsibility to check their scanners. If a customer falls victim to a scam, a skilled lawyer could help them hold the store accountable. 

Summary: How to Protect Yourself From Credit Card Scanners 

Staying informed about how to protect yourself and your personal information in our digital age can be extremely challenging, mainly because credit card scanners constantly evolve in size, appearance, and functionality.

Experts generally advise being vigilant about where and how you use your credit card. It’s crucial to verify that the scanners you use have safety features and are free from add-ons. Additionally, other strategies, such as exclusively using credit cards at new stores and obtaining fraud insurance, have also gained popularity.

If you see a scanner, you must report it to the proper authorities. Additionally, you should notify the store and your credit card or bank if you have fallen victim. Afterward, you may want to follow up with local law enforcement, who can guide you on contacting higher authorities to file a report.