Most people have seen stories about credit card skimming when thieves use small devices to steal your credit card information. It happens most commonly at gas stations and ATMs. According to Yahoo Finance, there was a 40 percent increase in skimming reports in 2023. Each skimming event usually involves about 200 credit cards. Thieves use fake keypads, false panels, or small cameras to steal card information such as name, number, verification code, and expiration date.
Look for these signs to avoid being skimmed:
- Tape on a payment panel
- A keypad that’s misaligned
- The keypad or card reader moves easily
- The buttons are hard to press
- An additional piece of plastic or metal is seen
If you visit the same payment terminals and they look different, that’s a possible problem.
Another tool for thieves is a small hidden camera that can film the front and back of your card. To protect yourself at a payment location, keep the card covered by your hand until inserted. Also, block any view of the keypad when entering your PIN. Using ATMs at banks rather than gas stations or convenience stores is best.
Senior Life Should Be Fulfilling
More retirement income gives seniors a financial cushion. That’s one reason why Council of Seniors is committed to getting Congress to pass The SAVE Benefits Act. Due to lower-than-anticipated cost-of-living adjustments (COLAs) in recent years, the amount of $581 was withheld from seniors’ checks. The passage of this bill will ensure this money is returned.
Signing our petition is the first step to helping us achieve our mission. We would deeply appreciate your participation in returning this money to seniors.
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