Credit Card Skimming
The skimming
of credit cards has become a real problem in the last few years. A skimmer is a
device, now the size of a small pager that has a slit in it. When a credit card
is swiped through it, it reads the cardholder's name, card number, expiry date
and invisible encrypted verification code.
This
information is stored within the skimmer, which is then downloaded onto a
computer. The skimmer can generally hold up to 500 cards' details.
Waiters in
restaurants normally perform skimming, although it can be done by anyone who has
access to consumer's cards during the course of business.
Normally crime
syndicates persuade the waiters or clerks to gather the card details using a
skimming device by offering them cash. These people are normally lowly paid, or
part-time workers who jump at the opportunity for more cash.
Skimming is
just another way of gaining valid credit card details, to make fake cards, or to
carry out fraudulent purchases. This can also be a way to begin an identity
theft scheme.
Prevention
Get into the
habit of always watching what is done with your credit card. Do not simply give
your card at the table to the waiter at restaurants to go away and process the
transaction.
When you are
leaving, pay your bill at the counter where the credit card machine is
located. This way, you can keep an eye on what is done with your card.
When you do
make payments with your credit card, ensure you pay attention to what is done
with your card. A skimmer can simply be on the hip of an employee, under a shirt
or apron. What does the employee do with your card?
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