RBC | I need to preface this article with my opinion that this particular scam will most likely never occur in Rio Blanco County however, it is possible. Possible, but very unlikely. Nevertheless, it is important to remember to be cautious when you travel to “the city.”
The description of this scam is pretty straightforward. The hackers install a device on a credit card reader, typically a gas pump or ATM, and it records your credit card information as you use it. The pump or ATM reads the card at the same time, so the victim is completely unaware that their information has been collected. As part of the hacker package, they even install a tiny wireless camera to record your PIN or zip code as you enter it. It all sounds pretty sophisticated, and in some ways it is, but they can be defeated. They’re actually pretty easy to detect if you know what to look for.
The skimmer device itself is designed to be a “retro-fit” right over the top of the existing credit card reader. It literally has all the appearances of the original however, the hackers have the challenge making sure the device is easily removable because they typically can’t transmit your information over a WiFi or wireless network. It simply records the information onto onboard memory to be downloaded once the hackers collected the device. This is the “chink in the armor”… If it’s easy for them to remove the device, it will be easy for you to remove it too. The best and easiest way to detect a skimmer is by simply grabbing the device and giving it a good wiggle and tug. Don’t worry about breaking a legitimate card reader… They’re built tough. If it’s a skimmer, it will most likely pop off in your hand. This isn’t always the case, but it’s the most typical scenario. The majority of ATM’s have built-in video cameras to record transactions as they occur. This also prevents hackers from installing skimmers due to the potential of being recorded in the act. Some of the third-party ATM’s in convenience stores don’t have these cameras, so they are far more vulnerable. The important thing to ATM hackers is to not only record your debit or credit card number, but to record your PIN as well. Look for tiny cameras on the pump or ATM, but also look for cameras that may be mounted up high where most people would never look anyway.
If you are “fortunate” enough to actually bag a skimmer on a gas pump, resist the temptation to simply turn it over to the attendant behind the counter. The easiest way for a hacker to install a skimmer is with the assistance of an employee. The proverbial “inside job.” Call the local police, then approach the manager of the station and advise them that you have already called the police. Don’t turn the device over to anyone except a law enforcement officer. Not only is your information recorded on the device, it’s also a piece of evidence that could be instrumental in catching and convicting the hacker. All it would take is a quick boot heel stomp and the evidence could be lost.
By BRETT DEARMAN | [email protected]
