The Bay Area is no stranger to technology and innovation, but the ever-evolving landscape has given rise to a new kind of threat: a surge in sophisticated credit card skimmers that are now plaguing the region. As pockets of criminal activity grow, locals and visitors are called to be on high alert, keeping an eye on their surroundings and their financial security.
According to a recent Facebook post by the San Pablo Police Department, a local business reported finding a credit card skimmer installed on one of their check-out terminals. Fortunately, the device was discovered by a diligent employee during routine checks before any harm could be caused. Criminals are not only hiding behind screens, but also adapting their illegal tools to be more inconspicuous, blurring the lines between what is genuine and what is counterfeit.
With the increased frequency and realism of credit card skimmers, it is essential that businesses put measures into place that prioritize customer safety. One popular method is the use of safety seals on terminals (As seen below), marking them as legitimate and helping consumers recognize devices they can trust.
Consumers should educate themselves on what to look out for and report any suspicious activity to the retail employees or the police.
