A scammer has been caught on video installing a credit card reader at Pomegranate Supermarket on Coney Island Avenue in Flatbush, Brooklyn.
Watch the videos here:
Card skimmers are devices placed on ATMs or credit card readers that secretly scan cards, stealing the data contained on them, so the person who put it in place can use the information for fraudulent purchases.
Skimming scams are targeted at people using ATMs, gas pumps, or credit card readers at retail outlets.
The scammers carefully craft devices that look like legitimate card readers, which they then attempt to “blend right in” to the actual machine, according to the FBI.
The specific device used is often a realistic-looking card reader placed over the factory-installed card reader,” the FBI writes.
Once a victim swipes their credit card, the skimming device either stores or sends the victim’s information, for the criminals to retrieve.
Scammers have also been known to use hidden cameras to record victims entering their PIN numbers into ATM machines, the FBI said. Some also create fake numerical keypads that record the keystrokes of users, to steal such passwords.
How can you spot a skimming device?
Before putting your card into a reader, the FBI says there are some easy and effective ways to protect your information. Be sure to inspect the reader and look for any loose parts or damage. Scratches or damage to adhesive tape can also be indicators that it has been tampered with. If you give the skimmer a light shake and it feels loose, tell an employee.
To prevent cameras from capturing your passwords, the FBI recommends users cover the keypad with one hand, while punching in the PIN with the other.
{Matzav.com}
Why not have some small alarm on the readers that will go off if something is placed on it? Or a small identifier that is different for each store (that the store changes regularly) that employees can check before each transaction? Or color codes? Anything to make it more difficult for the scammers.