Authorities warn travelers to look out for credit card skimmers


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SALT LAKE CITY — As more drivers start hitting the road for the long weekend, the Department of Agriculture warned drivers to be on the lookout for credit card skimmers.

There have been several instances of credit card skimmers found across northern Utah in the past few months. The devices are placed onto credit card readers and allow thieves to record credit card information as victims pay for fuel. Inspectors who typically check the accuracy of gas pumps will soon get training on how to spot skimmers, the department said in a news release.

"It is becoming a problem nationwide," said Travis Waller, director of regulatory services for the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food. "There have been a few incidents here in the state of Utah where they've been found on fuel pumps."

The department lists the following recommendations to minimize the risk of being victimized. Tips for consumers include:

  • Pay in cash inside the store to ensure credit card information stays safe.
  • Check to make sure the gas pump dispenser cabinet is closed and has not been tampered with. Many stations are now putting a piece of security tape over the cabinet to ensure it has not been opened by unauthorized individuals.
  • Try to use a gas pump closer to the front of the store. Thieves often place skimmers at the gas pumps farther away from the store so they aren’t noticed as quickly.
  • Use a credit card instead of a debit card. Credit cards have better fraud protection, and the money is not deducted immediately from an account.
  • If using a debit card at the pump, choose to run it as a credit card instead of putting a PIN number in. That way, the PIN number is safe. Monitor bank accounts regularly to spot any unauthorized charges.
  • Consumers who suspect their credit card number has been compromised should report it immediately to authorities and their credit card company.

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Sean Moody

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