On Thursday, June 2, 2016, patrol officers responded to a report of a skimming device located inside a fuel pump at Valero, 5002 Slide Road. An employee performing work on one of the pumps located the device inside the fuel pump where the credit card reader housing is located. The remaining fuel pumps were checked and no other skimming devices were located. It’s unknown how long the device had been in place or how many victims had their credit card information compromised.
These skimming devices are becoming more prevalent and sophisticated. They are often very well concealed and therefore difficult to spot. The skimmers steal the information on credit cards when they are swiped. Often times, the unsuspecting victims don’t know their credit card has been compromised until they check their statements or get a call from the credit card company about suspicious activity.
There are a few ways to protect yourself.
• Avoid paying at the pump. Walk inside to pay when possible.
• Choose a pump near the attendant. Skimmers prefer pumps out of view of the attendants.
• Check your account frequently and report fraudulent charges immediately.
The Lubbock Police Department urges anyone with information about this case to call Crime Line at 806-741-1000.
(Press release from Lubbock Police Department)
* NOTE: a police report indicated two devices were found.
