Police warn of credit card fraud at petrol stations

CHARLOTTE, NC (WBTV) – The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Headquarters warns people about a scam involving card readers at gas stations, supermarkets and ATMs.

According to CMPD, fraudsters are making exact copies of card readers that fit the readers used at self-checkouts, or they are simply putting new covers on the card readers at the checkout. Some even place them inside the machines so they are not visible.

Once the card is swiped, fraudsters can send the card information to themselves via Bluetooth.

Police said card users can wiggle the card reader back and forth before inserting the card. If it moves or anything suspicious appears, it should be reported. Those using a debit card can use it as a credit card and should always cover the keypad.

Paying with cash or using tap-to-pay could also prevent information theft.

It is also recommended to monitor card and bank statements.

Thieves using Bluetooth can check the phone’s settings to see if such a device is present. Skimming devices usually appear as a long list of numbers and letters.

Related: Smart TV users become targets of fraudsters

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