Just when it seemed gas station skimmers were a thing of the past, more pop up. Winter Haven police are warning the community that skimmers have been found at couple gas stations in the area over the past few weeks.
The skimmers have been located at the Circle K at 1000 1st St. S and the Citgo at 100 E. Central Ave. in the past three weeks.
Residents in the area are warned to monitor their bank accounts closely and to report any strange activity to their bank and police immediately.
ABC action news and local police have provided these safety tips when it comes to skimmers:
- Try to always avoid using the pumps that are farthest from the front of the store. These pumps have limited sight for the workers inside and it’s easier for criminals to install the skimmer without being detected
- Check the pump for any unusual markings that could indicate the machine has been tampered with
- Check for security tape along the pump that indicates the machine has not been opened
- Check the card reader and if it seems loose, DO NOT use and report to the store immediately
Another option to avoid being the victim of a gas station skimmer is to pay inside.
