ALAMOSA — A total of $5,000 appears to have been stolen by “credit card skimmers” at a gas station located in Alamosa, according to Alamosa Police Department (APD) Chief George Dingfelder.  

“We are still investigating our case and have a lot of videos and information to work through,” said Dingfelder. 

As described by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) on their website www.fbi.gov, “skimming occurs when devices illegally installed on or inside ATMs, point-of-sale (POS) terminals, or fuel pumps capture card data and record cardholders’ PIN entries. 

“Criminals then use the data to create fake payment cards and make unauthorized purchases or steal from victims' accounts.” 

Skimmers placed on fuel pumps store data that is then downloaded or wirelessly transferred at a later time. Because they’re usually attached to the internal wiring of the machine and aren’t visible to the customer, the FBI recommends consumers take proactive steps to protect their information.  

First, consider paying inside with the attendant, not outside at the pump. 

If paying outside, people are advised to choose a fuel pump closer to the store and in direct view of the attendant. Skimmers are less likely to target fuel pumps easily visible.  

If possible, run a debit card as a credit card. If that isn’t an option, cover the keypad when entering a PIN number.  

But even before starting the transaction, look closely at the keypad to see if there are any inconsistencies in its color or material or its shape. Inconsistencies might indicate that a keypad overlay has been attached, which could suggest that a foreign device (like a keypad overlay) has been installed. 

Tap the card instead of swiping or inserting it when paying at the pump (if the card and terminal allow for it). Tap-to-pay transactions are more secure and less likely to be compromised.   

The FBI also advises that people using ATMs, Point of Sale terminals and EBT cards should exercise caution, as well. It is estimated that skimming costs financial institutions and consumers more than $1 billion each year.