Be careful is someone is using a cell phone in a checkout line.

There are a lot of thieves out there and they’re coming up with new ways to steal your cash.  (Kudos to Howie Chizek at WNIR for reporting this on his radio show. )

The first theft method is called “Skimming.”  Skimming occurs when the thief places a card reading device OVER the existing ATM or gas pump card reader.  When you swipe your ATM/Debit card, it goes through the skimmer THEN into the legitimate pump/ATM card reader.  You’re still able to purchase gas or withdraw cash, but the skimmer reads your card and collects all the information.  The thief returns at a later time, collects the skimmer device, and now has card information from everyone who used that specific pump/ATM.

Be careful!  if you see a device loosely placed on a gas pump or ATM device, it could be a skimmer.  And it’s being advised that individuals patronize the same gas pumps/gas stations and ATMs.  Since you already know the  surroundings, you’ll more easily spot a skimmer device.  (More info on Skimmers here as reported by SFGate.com)

The second method being used to steal your identity or money involves cell phones.  Cell phones are now  equipped with extremely high resolution cameras.  The thief will stand behind you in a checkout line pretending to be talking on their cell phone. What’s really happening is, the thief is taking a sequence of pictures of you swiping your ATM/debit card.  The thief then uploads the pictures to their PC and, using any photo editing software application, is able to enlarge the image of your ATM/Debit/credit card.  They can clearly see your account number, name, and other card information.

Be careful!  Before you pull out your ATM/Debit card in a checkout line, look around!  If someone is behind you in a checkout line and using a cell phone, it might be a good idea to simply use cash.   If you don’t have cash, by all means make sure to cover your card!  Anymore, I hold my wallet close to my vest and cover my card numbers with my thumb.  And, of course, the last resort is to politely tell the person to put the phone away.