The Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD) is urging consumers, drivers, and visitors to remain vigilant this holiday weekend regarding credit card skimming. Credit card skimmers cannot be seen outside the gas pump and are located inside where they make a copy of the consumer’s card information.
“These criminals continue to try and use gas pumps to commit theft and steal your personal information for fraudulent use. Our weights and measures inspectors are just another way MDARD is protecting Michigan consumers at the pump,” said Gary McDowell, MDARD Director. “Kudos to our weights and measures staff for their dedication in protecting consumers pocketbooks and personal identification.”
MDARD recently found a skimmer located inside a gas pump Faris Fuel Stop Inc., 6114 N. Saginaw St., Mt. Morris in Genesee County and has staff doing focused efforts due to holiday travel.
“Many station owners have security measures in place to protect their patrons such as security tape,” added Craig VanBuren, MDARD’s Lab Division Director. “Unfortunately, thieves will cut, break, or remove the tape. It is important both the stations and customers remain vigilant at the pump when using a bank or credit card.”
MDARD continues to work with the Federal Bureau of Investigation and local law enforcement, who are the lead agencies on these investigations, to try track down the thieves. The department will continue to look for skimmers during every routine pump inspection.
If you believe your information may have been compromised, please contact your banking institution immediately.
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