Credit card skimming has been around for some time and sometimes people don’t even realize they’ve been scammed.
Skimmers can be difficult to detect because they look very similar to traditional electronic payment machines.
“The skimmers that attach to these POS systems look just like regular POS systems. They just sit on top, click in, and lock in pretty well. When you look at it, it looks like you’re actually using the POS machine,” said Chris Johnson, Reno Police Department spokesman.
Card transactions are carried out even if a skimmer is connected to a payment machine.
When you use a pay machine, you can check if it has any strange grooves or if the machine feels loose.
While it can be difficult to protect yourself from this scam, Johnson says there is a safer payment option.
“Using the tap-to-pay feature on your card is better than just inserting the card or swiping it through the card reader. It offers a little more security, so I would suggest using the tap-to-pay feature at gas pumps and these point-of-sale systems,” said Chris Johnson.
You should also check your bank statements regularly to make sure your card has not been compromised.
If this is the case, you should contact your bank immediately and have your card blocked.
If you encounter a skimmer or become a victim of this scam, Johnson recommends contacting the police so they can conduct further investigations.
