Credit Card Skimming

>An electronic device known as a skimmer can be used to gather information which is contained in the magnetic strip of credit and banking cards.  Skimming usually occurs when a credit card is given to a corrupt employee for a legitimate transaction, the corrupt employee not only swipes your card for the legitimate sale but also secretly swipes it a second time through a skimmer.

Sometimes skimmers are attached to ATMs and victims enter their card into the device thinking it is part of the ATM.  It has been known for criminals to produce entirely fake ATMs to trap victims.

To help protect yourself against skimming:

• Keep receipts in a safe place and review them against your bill.  If there are any discrepancies contact you credit card provider immediately.

• Be aware of unusual devices attached to the front of ATM machines.

• Watch your credit card whist using it.  Don't allow it to be swiped out of site. At restaurants pay at the counter rather than give the credit card to a waiter at your table and let them take it away.