The credit card skimmer is the black piece on the end of the card reader and can easily go unnoticed. (Photo Credit: Kamloops RCMP)
Kamloops RCMP want to make the public aware of the type of card skimmer that was used to capture credit and debit card information at a Kamloops gas station in July.
Police have released pictures of the device that was used at the Chevron gas station located at 1795 East Trans-Canada Highway on July 16th.
The skimmer was used on pump eight of the gas station and it is unknown how long it was in place before it was discovered by staff. Anyone who used this pump around July 16th is urged to check their credit card statement.
How the card reader looks without the skimmer attached. (Photo Credit: Kamloops RCMP)
The skimmer is difficult to detect and appears to be a normal part of the card reader. Skimmers are used by organized crime throughout Canada to access credit card information. This particular device is just one type of skimmer used by criminals to access credit card information.
Chevron has put measures in place to prevent further occurrences at all of their gas stations in British Columbia.
Credit card fraud can happen in several ways. A lost or stolen card can be used to purchase goods and services. A criminal could obtain card data and use the information to manufacture a counterfeit card, or the data could be used to make telephone or Internet purchases.
Kamloops RCMP want to make the public aware of this problem, and anyone who is a victim to credit card fraud should take the appropriate steps.
The card reader with with the skimmer on the left and without it on the right. (Photo Credit: Kamloops RCMP)
If you have charges on your credit card that you didn’t make, contact your credit card issuer right away using the phone number on the back of your card. The card issuer will take the appropriate steps to protect you from fraud.
Also contact your credit bureau and have fraud alerts placed on your credit reports.
Always report credit card fraud to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre online or by phone at 1-888-495-8501.
Make sure you contact your local police if you detect credit card fraud.
