CSPD Seeing an Increase in the Types of Businesses Being Targeted with Credit Card Skimmers

The Colorado Springs Police Department (CSPD) is following a new trend in using credit card skimmer devices at a growing number of locations. While gas station pumps continue to be a point of purchase that criminals commonly target with skimmer devices, over the last few months, CSPD has seen more cases where skimmers are being installed at grocery stores, large retailers, and restaurants where customers directly use a card reader to pay for their purchase.

Criminals use these small, discreet devices, often placed over legitimate card readers, to capture a consumer's card information when they swipe or insert it. Once criminals retrieve the stolen data, they can quickly drain bank accounts or use credit card information for fraudulent purchases. These skimmers can be installed in seconds without the retailer even knowing they have been installed. They are often difficult to spot to the untrained eye, meaning anyone could fall victim to this crime.

CSPD wants to remind consumers that it's essential to stay vigilant whenever using a credit or debit card. Always inspect card readers for any unusual attachments or signs of tampering, particularly at self-checkout kiosks, gas pumps, and ATMs. If anything looks off, report it immediately to store personnel or the authorities. In addition, consider using contactless payment methods, like mobile wallets or tap-to-pay cards, which remove the need to physically swipe or insert your card into a potentially compromised device.

It's also important to monitor financial statements regularly for any unauthorized transactions. Even small, unfamiliar charges could be a sign that credit card information has been compromised. If any suspicious activity is spotted, consumers should contact their bank or credit card provider right away to freeze their card and dispute the charges.