Identity Theft at the Gas Pump

Just as Americans start to see relief from skyrocketing gas prices and the prices drop, a new concerning the purchase of gasoline arises: identity theft. During the past few months, Texas cities like Dallas, Fort Worth, and Plano are seeing increasing reports of identity theft at automated gas pumps where the consumer can pay at the pump. It appears to be a new updated version of what is considered common technology for the identity thief.

Card skimmers often used in retail and restaurant settings to collect credit card information and at ATMs are finding their way to gas pumps. While for a long time skimmers can be detected by the vigilant consumer looking for suspicious devices, newer versions of this device have become more efficient. They are smaller and can be attached to card readers without being noticed and not interfering with the transaction. This is disconcerting whether you are paying for gas at the pump, withdrawing cash at your ATM, or paying for groceries at a self-checkout station. As devices become smaller, the easier it will be for scammers to use them for identity theft and other crimes.

So far, the reports seem to indicate this is becoming a problem in Texas with some earlier incidents reported on the West coast. However, don't expect it to remain isolated. With new technology making identity theft more efficient, the consumer needs to be extra careful. If you are at a pump something looks suspicious with its payment device, go inside and report it to the attendant and pay inside. It may be an incovenience, but a few minutes talking to an attendant at a gas station could save you and possibly others thousands of dollars by preventing identity theft.