Be wary of “skimmers” on ATMs, gas station pumps, and other machines with credit card readers. Skimmers are small devices installed over the normal reading slot. The skimmer reads your credit or debit card’s information. The crook then returns later to remove the skimmer and retrieve the stored information. Skimming devices are not always noticeable, but they will usually stick out an inch or two from the card reader.
Before you insert your card, pull on the credit card reader to be sure it can be removed. If you are at an ATM, cover the keypad when you enter your PIN in case there’s a hidden camera around. If an ATM keeps your card, contact your financial institution immediately. (TCU)