Connecticut Targets Credit Card Skimming Fraud

State officials sought Wednesday to help Connecticut consumers recognize the signs of card skimming fraud and highlighted efforts to thwart credit, debit, and EBT card skimmers at retailers across the state.

Skimmers are illegal devices, which thieves place on card readers attached to ATMs, gas pumps, and store check-out terminals. These devices are designed to steal sensitive information like card numbers and PINs and are often constructed to resemble legitimate card reader components.

However, consumers can protect themselves from this type of fraud by taking a few steps before using a card reader:

-Inspect the device for anything out of place. This might be unusual dimensions, mismatched colors or sticky residue on the keypad.

-Gently shake the card reader to see if any parts have been tampered with or improperly attached.

-Inspect the card slot for components that seem loose, altered or out-of-place.

Consumers who identify suspect card readers should alert authorities and use a different sales terminal. Connecticut residents can also protect themselves by taking additional steps including using contactless payment options like chip cards, Apple Pay, and Google Pay; monitoring their accounts for suspicious activity; shielding keypads as they enter their PINs and changing their PINs often.

In a press release, Gov. Ned Lamont said state agencies were working together with law enforcement to combat card skimming scams in Connecticut.

“But it will require all of us remaining vigilant, learning the signs of a skimming device, sharing that information with our friends and family, and reporting any incidents to the police to bring this scam to an end,” Lamont said.

State Police Sergeant Luke Davis urged all residents to be alert to inconsistencies in the appearance of card-reading devices and avoid terminals that appear damaged or altered.

“Physically check the PIN pad and card slot of an ATM for security, as some scammers use an adhesive product when tampering with them,” Davis said. “Always obscure the view of the ATM or retail keypad so that your PIN stays private. In addition, when fueling a vehicle, use the pumps positioned closest to the building as they are least likely to be tampered with.”

Consumers can report suspected skimming devices to store managers or police and file complaints online with the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection at ct.gov/DCP.

 Posted by Hugh McQuaid