When are you most vulnerable to identity theft? Usually when you’re in a hurry or distracted and not paying attention to what’s going on around you. That’s why the gas station is one of the biggest targets for scammers and identity thieves. You’re using your credit card, but instead of paying attention to what you’re doing, you’re thinking about where you’re going afterwards, and what you have to do next. There are all sorts of ways you can become a victim of credit card fraud at gas stations, if you’re not careful. But here are a few things you can do to prevent it.
- Look for Tampering. Often, identity thieves will pry open the panel on the gas pump that has the credit card reader on it, and insert a device that will appropriate your card info. Check out the panel before you insert your card, to see if it looks broken, bent, or like it’s been otherwise tampered with.
- Look for the Security Seal. In order to combat credit card fraud, some gas stations place special stickers over the opening of the credit card panel as a security seal. If the sticker is removed or otherwise tampered with to open the panel, the word “VOID” appears on it, so you can see that the pump has been compromised. Check for this seal before you begin fueling, and if you see tampering, don’t use that pump.
- Look for Skimmers. Another method of credit card fraud at gas stations is with skimmers. These are devices placed over the card reader itself, to grab your information as you insert your card. Compare the card reader on your pump to the ones on the other pumps. If it looks different, then it might be a skimmer.
- Protect Your Password. If you use a debit card instead of a credit card, you may think you have an extra layer of protection. After all, they can’t use the card without your password, right? Well, that extra protection can turn into an extra danger if you’re not careful. Often, identity thieves will install tiny cameras above the credit card reader, to see your password as you enter it. Then they can do more than just make purchases in your name. They can go to an ATM and withdraw cash from your account. Any time you’re typing in your password, shield it with your hand, so that cameras can’t pick it up.
- Use Cash. This isn’t always feasible, but it’s certainly the most effective method of avoiding credit card fraud at gas stations. Just use cash instead. If you’re unsure whether a card machine has been tampered with, or just want to play it safe, have a bit of cash on hand and pay at the window, rather than directly at the pump.
Credit card fraud at gas stations, or anywhere else, is a hassle you don’t need in your life. Just be careful and look closely before using your card at a pump. With a little bit of caution, you can fill your tank without having to worry about having your identity stolen.
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If you are looking for a professional and reliable certified fraud examination specialist, Veriti Consulting provides forensic accounting and fraud investigation services for individuals and businesses across the United States. Call 855-232-4410 or send your questions via email.
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