Skimming Scams: What They Are and How to Stay Safe

**Skimming is a stealthy form of financial theft** that often goes unnoticed until it’s too late. Criminals attach hidden devices to ATMs, point-of-sale (POS) terminals, or fuel pumps to capture card data and PIN entries. That stolen data is then used to create counterfeit cards, siphoning off funds from unsuspecting victims.

It’s estimated that skimming costs financial institutions and consumers **over $1 billion annually**.

Common Skimming Tactics

**Fuel Pump Skimming**
Skimmers are often installed inside the fuel dispenser, making them nearly impossible to see. These devices can store or wirelessly transmit stolen data.
**Quick Tips:**
- Choose pumps in direct view of the store or attendant.
- Use “credit” mode to avoid entering your PIN.
- Cover the keypad and inspect for loose components.
- Tap-to-pay methods (if available) offer enhanced security.

**ATM & POS Skimming**
These involve skimmer devices placed externally or internally within the terminal, sometimes alongside **pinhole cameras** or **keylogging overlays** to record PINs. At retail checkouts, fraudsters may install overlays on terminals and even distract cashiers to slip devices in unnoticed. Some tools transmit data in real-time to nearby receivers.
**Be alert for:**
- Unusual bulkiness or misaligned parts on the card reader.
- Loose keypads or anything that looks recently tampered with.
- Remote or dimly lit ATM locations—indoor ATMs are generally safer.

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A Growing Threat: EBT Card Skimming

Since 2021, Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) cards have become a key target. Many of these cards lack chip technology, making them easier to clone. Bad actors often **strike shortly after monthly benefits are loaded**, sometimes using complicit retailers to convert card data into cash or goods.

Common tactics include:
- **Phishing** (email),
- **Smishing** (text messages), and
- **Vishing** (automated calls) that urge victims to provide card details by creating a false sense of urgency.

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How to Protect Yourself

- **Inspect Before You Swipe**: Look for anything unusual at the card reader.
- **Use Indoor or Well-Lit ATMs**: These are harder targets for criminals.
- **Use Credit Over Debit**: Especially if your debit card accesses linked accounts.
- **Enable Alerts**: Set up real-time notifications for all card transactions.
- **Review Regularly**: Monitor your accounts for suspicious activity.
- **Know Your Benefits Account Tools**: Many states now offer the ability to lock or freeze EBT cards between uses.

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### Take Action

If your card is retained by an ATM or you notice anything suspicious, **immediately report it** to your card issuer. Victims of skimming, especially EBT cardholders, often face long delays and limited reimbursement—so staying proactive is essential.

For fraud related to skimming, file a report at the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center: [ic3.gov](https://www.ic3.gov).

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