A high-tech device was being used to steal credit card information at a local gas station and area residents are being urged to closely check their credit card statements.
The “skimmer” had been put in place at the Sunoco gas station at 413 S. U.S. Hwy. 27/441 in Lady Lake.
“Multiple people who have purchased gas at Sunoco in Lady Lake might be victims of credit card fraud. Credit information had been stolen from multiple customers by a ‘skimmer,'” warned Lady Lake Police Chief Chris McKinstry.
The device allows the thief to capture a customer’s credit and debit information including the pin number with each card swipe.
Skimmers are not easily detected so consumers must be extra vigilant to prevent this sort of identity theft, he said.
At this time, there are no skimming devices at the Sunoco gas pumps, he added.
The Lady Lake Police encourage anyone who used a credit or debit card to purchase fuel from the Sunoco station gas pumps this month to monitor their credit statements for fraudulent activity by identity theft.
If you have any information about the suspect or if you have been a victim of this type of fraud, call the Lady Lake Police Department at 352-751-1565.
Theft Prevention Tips:
• It is highly recommended to not use a debit card where you have to input your PIN and instead use a credit card.
• Use a pump closer to the attendant as most skimming devices are located further away from foot traffic.
• If convenient, go inside to pay instead of paying at the pump.
• Do not give cash to people who offer to buy your gas at the pump with their credit card; the card could be stolen.
• Check the machine – if you notice the credit card part is loose, cracked or damaged, or if there is any tape or residue on the machine, it could have been opened.
• If you suspect skimming, contact your bank and local police. Do not rely on a store clerk to call police, since there have been cases in which employees were involved in the crime.
• Check your accounts more often and call or go online to see recent transactions; don’t just wait for monthly statements.