fbpx Launch Icons SVG sprites for Launch site navigation The HomeAdvantage Home Buying Center Zero Checking Low Loan Rates Low Loan Rates App Store Google Play
FRAUD ALERT: If you receive an unexpected text from Launch CU, DO NOT click the link.   Learn More

What Is Card Skimming/Shimming And How To Avoid It

Updated: July 22, 2024

Card skimming is another sneaky way scammers are stealing people’s money. A card skimmer is a device that steals card information by reading your debit or credit card’s magnetic strip. Along similar lines, a card shimmer is used to capture information from chip-enabled cards and are much harder to detect because they are located inside of card readers. Card skimming/shimming is popular at places like gas stations, ATMs, parking meters, and other points of sale. These devices are attached to keypads, card readers, etc. Once your card is skimmed, scammers now have access to your card number, expiration date, and cardholder’s name. Launch CU explains below how to avoid card skimming.

using credit card at gas station

What to Look For

While card skimming devices can be hard to spot, there are a few things you can watch for.

  • Try to tug/jiggle the gas station card reader. If it’s loose, a card skimmer could potentially be installed.
  • Look for tampering such as different coloring on the machine or keypad numbers not aligning. 
  • Check the feel of the keypad. If it feels too thick there may be a pin-snatching overlay on it. 

What Do Scammers Do With Stolen Information?

Scammers return to where they’ve installed the card skimmers and retrieve them to gather your information. From there, they can duplicate your card, use your information to make online purchases, or sell it on the dark web

credit card scammer
covering pin number at ATM

How to Protect Yourself

  • Especially for shimming, wiggle your card as you slide it into the ATM slot. This will shield your information from the skimming device. 
  • Cover the keypad when you’re inputting your PIN
  • If you’re at a gas station, pay inside
  • Monitor your debit and credit card accounts regularly 
  • Use contactless payment method when available 

Here is what you need to do if your card is skimmed:

  • Notify your bank
  • Check your charges and record which ones are fraudulent 
  • Set up fraud alerts on your account so you’re notified right away. 
person on the phone

Related Posts

May 2, 2025
Moving Soon? Avoid These Common (and Costly) Mistakes If you're moving soon, make sure to avoid these common pitfalls. We want your move to be as stress-free as possible!
April 24, 2025
Beware of These Travel Scams When booking your next vacation, watch for these common travel scams that can cost you time, money, and peace of mind.
March 26, 2025
Financial Capability Month Challenge: 30 Days to a Better Budget April is Financial Capability Month. Join Launch CU's 30 Days to a Better Budget challenge and take control of your finances this month!
Visit any branch location to open your account. For questions call 321-455-9400 (inside Brevard) or 800-662-5257 (outside Brevard).
Back to top