As many people travel this holiday week, it is advised to beware of possible skimming devices on gas pumps nationwide.
This week, ABC News reported that the U.S. Secret Service was alerted to some 59 skimmers from 85 locations in 21 states. What is a skimming device? Often times, thieves install a very small, difficult to see the device inside the card reader. A high-level skimmer can send credit card information through a Bluetooth device and not have to return to the scene of the crime. Criminals are essentially able to copy user information and use those cards to make fraudulent purchases. Millions of dollars are lost every year from skimming.
Emporia has not been immune to skimming devices, which popped up at a handful of gas pumps in the area last spring and summer. EPD Sgt. Lisa Sage says there have been no incidents here locally related to skimming this year. Even so, the police department does typically see a large number of unlawful use of credit card incidents throughout the year.
The best way to avoid having your information compromised is to always pay inside rather than at the pump and use cash for gas transactions when possible.
