Card skimming is a method of obtaining personal data from ATM, debit, or credit cards while they are used at an ATM machine or a merchant location. Skimming is the theft of personal information which has been used in an otherwise normal transaction. The thief can procure a victims card number using basic methods such as photocopying receipts or more advanced methods such as using a small electronic device (skimmer) to swipe and store hundreds of victims card numbers. Skimming devices can be installed on card readers at gas station pumps, ATMs, and point-of-sale (POS) terminals. The skimmer scans or “skims” credit or debit card information when a card is used. The thief may also use a small keypad to unobtrusively transcribe the three or four-digit card security code, which is not present on the magnetic strip. Skimming is difficult for the typical cardholder to detect, but given a large enough sample, it is fairly easy for the card issuer to detect.
To protect yourself from card skimming, you can take the following steps:
- Be vigilant and inspect the ATM or card reader before using it. Skimming devices that are placed on or near the ATMs actual card reader are often difficult to detect, but if anything about the card reader or PIN pad looks different, unusual or seems loose to the touch, dont use it.
- Use gas pumps located closest to the attendant or pay inside the gas station.
- Use a credit card instead of a debit card to avoid entering your PIN. Credit cards may also provide additional protections against fraud.
- Sign up for notifications or alerts for your bank and credit card transactions, and you will receive a notification or alert whenever a transaction is made.
- Check your card transactions regularly to spot suspicious activity.
- If you notice suspicious activity, call your card issuer immediately.
In summary, card skimming is a type of credit card fraud that involves the theft of personal information from ATM, debit, or credit cards while they are used at an ATM machine or a merchant location. Skimming devices can be installed on card readers at gas station pumps, ATMs, and point-of-sale (POS) terminals. To protect yourself from card skimming, you can be vigilant and inspect the ATM or card reader before using it, use gas pumps located closest to the attendant or pay inside the gas station, use a credit card instead of a debit card, sign up for notifications or alerts for your bank and credit card transactions, check your card transactions regularly, an...
