Credit Card Skimming

The process of Skimming occurs when a corrupt employee uses a hand held electronic device, known as a Skimmer, to obtain the information contained in the magnetic strip of a credit or debit card.  During the skimming process, the employee will swipe your card twice.  Once to legitimately process your charges and the second time they are swiping your card through a Skimmer.  The Skimmer is a hand-held device, about the size of a pager, that the employee carries in their pocket to swipe your card when he or she is out of your sight.  The Skimmer captures your information such as your name, address, card number, credit limit and pin!  The corrupt employee then uses this information to either produce a new card or the information can be downloaded and sold at a later time.

To help protect yourself from becoming a victim of Credit Card Skimming:

• Keep your receipts and compare them against your statement.  If there are any discrepancies, report them immediately.
• Try to keep an eye on your credit card at all times.  Rather than handing your card to a waiter or waitress, pay at the counter.
• Balance your checkbook monthly.  If someone is using your debit card you will notice the transactions on your monthly statement.

If you become a victim of Credit Card Skimming, contact the three major credit bureau Fraud Hotlines as soon as possible.

Equifax:  800-525-6285

Experian:  800-397-3742

Trans Union:  800-680-7289

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