By Michael V. Cusenza
Queens District Attorney Melinda Katz on Friday revealed that her office is currently handling several open investigations into card skimming—a type of theft that occurs when illegally installed devices on ATMs, cashier terminals, or fuel pumps capture card data and record PIN entries for purposes of fraud.
Criminals use the data to create fake payment cards and then make unauthorized purchases or steal from victims’ accounts, the DA noted.
Katz said it is important to be aware of this type of card fraud, which affects debit, credit and electronic benefit transfer (EBT) cards, “so that you are better equipped to avoid becoming a victim.”
Photo Courtesy of DA Katz
DA Katz said it’s important to be aware of such fraud, which affects debit, credit and EBT cards, “so that you are better equipped to avoid becoming a victim.”
These devices can look similar to legitimate card swipe machines. Consider the below guidelines every time you use your card:
- Quickly scan the machine you are about to use. Do not use the machine if the card reader seems damaged or crooked or if the keypad numbers are hard to press or feel thick.
- Use a bank ATM, as opposed to privately-owned ATMs inside convenience stores or restaurants, to withdraw cash and a mobile wallet as payment whenever possible.
- Cover the keypad with your hand when entering your PIN in case a tiny camera is recording your number.
- Check your accounts regularly and immediately report any suspicious activity to your financial institution.
If you or someone you know has been a victim of skimming, reach out to the Frauds Bureau in Katz’s office by emailing frauds@queensda.org or calling (718) 286-6673.
