Stealing credit card information has become very rampant these days. Many people fall victim to these scams due to credit card skimming devices.
Card skimming devices are tiny devices that copy your credit card information and then either sell or use them to their advantage. You can protect yourself by learning how to recognize a skimming device and some tips.
If you want to learn more about credit card skimmer protection, check out the guide below.
What is Card Skimming?
Card skimming happens when either your credit or debit card information is being copied using a device called a card skimmer.
A card skimmer is usually a small device that is attached to a card reader or on ATMs. It is used to steal your credit card information or your PIN and use it for other purposes.
There are also card skimming devices that use Bluetooth to steal credit card information. It is then sent to their computer or phone after gathering all of your information.
Apart from card skimming devices, they also use a keypad overlay to steal your PIN or a camera that looks at how you input your password.
Recognizing Card Skimming Devices
Most card-skimming devices are usually used at ATMs and POS terminals. They are hidden so that no one will be able to notice it.
You can recognize a card skimming device at an ATM terminal if it overlaps the usual terminal for your card. There are also fake keypad covers used to copy your PIN. Make sure that you try to lift the keypad first and see if there is another below it.
ATMs usually have cameras, but they are pointed directly towards you. If you see a camera that is pointed down to where you enter your PIN, you need to either cover up the camera or report it immediately.
How to Avoid Scams Using Card Skimming
There are a lot of things that you can do to avoid getting scammed using card skimming devices.
These activities should help you actively avoid getting your credit card information stolen, especially if you’re using it in very sketchy places.
Inspect Thoroughly
When you visit an ATM terminal or a POS, make sure that you thoroughly inspect the terminal.
Most ATMs that are not related to any major banks tend to be one of the most common sites for skimming. Inspect the terminal and notice how and where the camera is pointed.
Try to lift the keypad first before you enter your PIN. If you need to enter your PIN, cover the keypad as you enter.
Uses a Chip Card
One of the most effective ways to prevent scams from card skimming is the use of a chip card.
Many cards today now have a microchip embedded into them, which prevents any skimming device from scanning the card and stealing the information.
If you still have a card that does not feature a microchip, make sure that you head over to your bank and have it replaced. Any other card that you want to own will always have a microchip in it.
Be Cautious When Using Your Card in Tourist Spots
Most card skimmers are often used in major tourist spots where it can get busy, and people often use their cards to purchase something.
If you need to purchase something, make sure that you have enough cash.
You will need to be very suspicious if they want to offer you some discounts if they insist on using your credit card for payment instead. Avoid using ATM terminals in major tourist spots as well.
Take Advantage of Contactless Payments
Another great way to avoid getting scammed by card skimming devices is to use contactless payments. Most banks nowadays have a mobile app counterpart that lets you pay for your transactions.
You don’t need to hand over your card to anybody just so you can pay for your transactions.
Most of the time, all you need to do is tap your card or phone on a payment terminal to continue with the transaction. This is much safer than giving your card.
Enable Notifications
If you already have a mobile app for your credit card, make sure that you also enable any alerts or notifications for any fraudulent transactions or activities on your card.
Most banks regularly monitor every transaction you make with your card.
If they find any activity that does not match your usual routine, they will immediately alert you so you can either block the card or report the establishment.
Take Advantage of Random Credit Card Number
Most apps today often generate a random credit card number to ensure that your full credit card information is safe.
They still allow you to continue with your transaction, but they ultimately hide all of your information from the card reader.
Make sure that you already generated a random credit card number using the app before you make a payment.
What to Do If Your Card Has Been Skimmed
If you’ve fallen victim to card skimming, do not worry.
There are a lot of things that you can do to prevent further damage to your card and your account.
Contact the Authorities
If your card has already been skimmed, the first thing that you need to do is to call the authorities.
Provide them with all the details that they need. Next, you need to call your bank and see if they can disable the card for you.
They will also provide you with more instructions on what to do.
Disable the Card
Those who have the mobile app for their credit card can immediately disable the card so that no one else can use it.
Head over to your account on the mobile app, choose the credit card, and tap on Disable.
It will immediately disable the card.
Conclusion
It is always important that you know how to recognize a card-skimming device and know what to do to prevent it from happening to you.
These guidelines will help you identify possible scams or fraudulent activities and prevent any personal information from getting stolen. Always be vigilant and make sure to follow the guidelines mentioned above.
