Police in Plano, Texas have discovered at least 50 cases of gas station credit card fraud. Apparently, thieves have installed credit card readers called “skimmers” at the gas pumps.

Do you think you’re too smart to fall for this kind of attack? Do a little Internet research. Use your favorite search engine, and search on terms “cheap credit card reader.” Try “small credit card reader.” Look over some of the products advertised and available for purchase.

You’ll find that skimmers are easily available to criminals. They can be as small as a matchbox. They can be purchased for less than $15. They are virtually undetectable; even if you knew there was a skimmer at the gas pump, you’d have a hard time finding it.

For a little extra money, there are card skimmers available that actually send the stolen credit card information immediately to an accomplice’s cell phone. For a couple hundred dollars, you can buy a card reader than even writes the stolen information to blank credit cards. Several of the cards advertised on the Internet include free blank cards, making it even easier for identity thieves to start up their new businesses. (more…)

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