May 19, 2025 – Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department officials report it is estimated that skimming costs financial institutions and consumers more than $1 billion each year!

Here’s a quick breakdown of how skimming typically works:

1. Installation of Skimmer: A fake card reader is placed over the real card slot, or inside the machine. It captures the card data when a customer inserts their card.
2. PIN Capture: A hidden camera or fake keypad records the PIN as it’s entered.
3. Data Cloning: The stolen data is transferred to a blank card, which can then be used fraudulently.
4. Monetization: The cloned card is used to withdraw cash or make purchases until the fraud is detected.

Preventive Tips:

• Use ATMs in well-lit, secure areas, preferably inside banks.
• Tap the card instead of swiping or inserting it when paying at the pump
• Cover the keypad while entering your PIN.
• Inspect card readers and keypads for signs of tampering.
• Set up transaction alerts on your cards to detect unauthorized users quickly.

For more information please visit: https://lasd.org / FBI reference link: https://www.fbi.gov/.../common-frauds-and-scams/skimming.

Source & photos: Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department