Be careful with your credit, debit cards: Skimmers on the rise

As the number of Americans traveling and using ATMs rises during the summer months, so does the number of scammers trying ruin summer plans.

Scammers are placing skimming devices on ATMs, gas station pumps and payment machines at retailers across the country. Skimmers can also be mobile devices, tucked away in a pocket. For example, a dishonest waiter may skim your card when you pay for dinner. Skimmers steal debit and credit card numbers by scanning cards’ magnetic strips and using hidden cameras to record pin numbers.

BBB offers these tips to keep you safe from skimmers:

■ Examine the keyboard and card reader before inserting your card. Skimmers may appear larger or look different from the rest of the machine. Likewise, if the fixture wiggles or appears to be attached with glue, it’s an indication a skimming device is attached. At gas stations, scammers must open the fuel dispenser door to insert the skimmer, check to see if the seal on the fuel dispenser door is intact.

■ Be wary if it’s hard to insert your card or the reader is loose.

■ Avoid gas pumps that are out of sight of the clerk and ATMs in areas with little traffic. Choose pumps close to the building.

■ Use your free hand to cover the key pad when entering your PIN. This makes it harder for cameras and bystanders to get your PIN number.

■ Pay inside with cash or a credit card rather than at the pump. There is less chance a scammer may have placed a card skimmer on the payment terminal in front of the clerk.

■ Do not accept help if someone offers. They may say they were having trouble also and know how to fix the problem.

■ Use your phone to detect possible skimmers. Apps have been developed that use Bluetooth to scan devices for possible skimmers. If your phone detects a skimmer, use a different location.

■ Consider paying in cash at restaurants instead of giving your credit card to waiters who will walk away to process charges.

■ Pay close attention to your bank and credit card statements and quickly report suspicious activity. Consumer protections vary, but depend largely on when fraudulent activity is reported.

Contact the police and your bank or credit card issuer immediately if you are victimized. Additionally, contact the three major credit bureaus — Trans Union, Equifax and Experian. You can report these scams to BBB ScamTracker at www.bbb.org/scamtracker and to the Ohio Attorney General’s Office at www.OhioProtects. org. For more information, visit www.bbb.org or call 937222-5825 or 800-776-5301.