5 things to know about credit-card skimmers
1. Thieves can install the devices in seconds on gas pumps.
2. ATM machines are also vulnerable.
3. Skimmers are attached inside pumps, preventing detection by users
4. Some skimmer devices are wireless.
5. U.S. Secret Service and local authorities handle criminal investigations of skimmers.
What to do if you are a victim of credit card fraud
If you have been the victim of credit card fraud or identity theft, the U.S. Secret Service offers the following tips:
- Report the crime to the police immediately. Get a copy of your police report or case number. Credit card companies, your bank, and the insurance company may ask you to reference the report to verify the crime.
- Immediately contact your credit card issuers. Get replacement cards with new account numbers and ask that the old account be processed as "account closed at consumer's request" for credit record purposes. You should also follow up this telephone conversation with a letter to the credit card company that summarizes your requests in writing.
- Call the fraud units of the three credit reporting bureaus. Report the theft of your credit cards and/or numbers. Ask that your accounts be flagged. Also, add a victim's statement to your report requesting they contact you to verify future credit applications.
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