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A credit card skimmer is an illegal device placed on or inside an ATM, fuel pump, or payment terminal to capture card data. Some schemes also steal a PIN using a hidden camera or a fake keypad. Skimming is the capture of payment information; any later unauthorized purchase or counterfeit-card use is a separate step.
How does a credit card skimmer work?
The FBI defines skimming as devices illegally installed on or inside ATMs, point-of-sale (POS) terminals, or fuel pumps to capture card data and record cardholders’ PIN entries. A skimmer can read magnetic-stripe information when a card is swiped. A hidden camera or keypad overlay may capture the PIN as it is entered.
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Some devices store the captured information for someone to retrieve later; others transmit it wirelessly. The stolen data may then be used in unauthorized transactions or to make a counterfeit card. The skimmer itself does not make those later transactions.
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Not every device is a visible attachment. Some skimmers fit over a genuine card reader, while others—especially at fuel pumps—may be hidden inside the equipment. A terminal can therefore be compromised without an obvious sign, and an unusual-looking reader is not proof that it has been tampered with.
#1 Best Overall
Skim Scan detects hidden card skimmers in ATMs, fuel dispensers and more
- Pocket sized security solution - no hardware installations or modifications required
- Detects deep insert and overlay skimmers hidden inside ATMs & fuel dispensers
- Works in ATMs, fuel pumps, kiosks, vending machines, smart parking meters & card readers
- Simple operation with bright LED and audible alert
- Made entirely in the USA
Where might a skimmer be found?
| Location | Possible signs to check | Important limitation |
|---|---|---|
| ATM | A loose, crooked, damaged, or scratched card reader; adhesive marks; or a keypad that appears altered. | A hidden device may not be apparent. Cover the keypad whenever you enter a PIN. |
| Fuel pump | A reader or surrounding panel that looks loose, damaged, or inconsistent with nearby pumps. | Some devices are installed inside the pump and cannot be spotted by a casual visual check. |
| Merchant checkout terminal | A card reader or keypad that appears loose, crooked, damaged, or modified. | An overlay can resemble part of the genuine reader, and appearance alone cannot establish whether a terminal is safe. |
The FBI advises checking for loose or altered parts, but inspection cannot guarantee that a terminal is uncompromised.
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SenseCAP Card Tracker T1000-E for Meshtastic
- Multi-protocol support: Featuring nRF52840 and LR1110, it supports LoRa (global ISM bands in the 863-928 MHz range). After purchasing the T1000-E, you can freely choose your region in the Meshtastic app. It also supports Bluetooth 5.0, Thread, and Zigbee, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of devices and networks.
- Powerful Positioning Capabilities: Integrated with the Mediatek‘s AG3335 GPS chip, it provides high-precision positioning services.
- Expandable Interfaces: Designed with four pogo pins, it supports USB interface for DFU (Device Firmware Upgrade), serial logging, and API interface, simplifying device management and debugging.
- Open Source Support: Compatible with the Meshtastic open-source mesh networking protocol, suitable for long-range and low-power communication needs.
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MSR90 USB Swipe Magnetic Credit Card Reader 3 Tracks Mini Smart Card Reader MSR605 MSR606 Deftun
- MSR90 is a USB emulation keyboard interface that not need any driver or software,USB simply plug and play
- Reads up to 3 tracks of information,can reads ISO7811, AAMVA, CA DMV and most other card data formats
- Threaded inserts for mounting. LED indicator, green light is on when connecting,green light blinks when cards swiped
- Bi-directional swipe reading, superior reading of high jitter, scratched, and worn magstripe cards, reliable for over 1,000,000 card swipes
- Configuration software makes configuration changes easy,works with: Windows OS and Mac OS
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NSKIM MX900 Credit Card Skimmer Detection Tool, Compatible with VeriFone MX915/925, Ingenico Lane 3000/5000/7000 Series, Pax PX7
- COMPATIBILITY: Works with multiple credit card terminal models including VeriFone MX 915/925, Ingenico Lane 3000/5000/7000, and PAX PX7 terminals
- QUICK DETECTION: Takes only seconds to verify if credit card terminals are free from unauthorized skimming devices
- SECURITY TOOL: Helps protect payment systems by identifying potential tampering or foreign objects on card readers
- EASY TO USE: Simple physical verification process requires no technical expertise or special training
- VERSATILE DESIGN: Available in different models to accommodate various terminal types including MX900 and M400 series
Rank #2
NSKIM M400 Credit Card Skimmer Detection Tool, Compatible with VeriFone M400 / M440 Credit Card Terminal
- COMPATIBILITY: Works with multiple credit card terminal models including VeriFone M400 & M440 stationary terminals
- QUICK DETECTION: Takes only seconds to verify if credit card terminals are free from unauthorized skimming devices
- SECURITY TOOL: Helps protect payment systems by identifying potential tampering or foreign objects on card readers
- EASY TO USE: Simple physical verification process requires no technical expertise or special training
- VERSATILE DESIGN: Available in different models to accommodate various terminal types including M400 for Verifone M400 / M440. The MX 900 for Verifone MX900/MX925, Ingenico Lane (3000/5000/7000), Pax PX7 and more.
How can you reduce the risk of skimming?
- Choose a safer fuel-payment option: Use a pump in direct view of the attendant, pay inside, or use contactless payment when available. The FBI says tap payments are more secure and less likely to be compromised.
- Check the terminal before using it: Look for loose, crooked, damaged, or scratched parts and adhesive marks. If something seems wrong, do not use that terminal; tell the attendant or business operator.
- Shield your PIN: Cover the keypad while entering your PIN at an ATM or other terminal. This can help block a hidden camera’s view, though it does not prevent card-data capture by itself.
- Use contactless payment when supported: Tapping avoids swiping a magnetic stripe at that transaction. It does not make every payment situation risk-free, so still follow the terminal operator’s guidance and protect any PIN you enter.
What should you do if you suspect a skimmer or see unauthorized activity?
- If you have not used the terminal: Do not insert, swipe, or tap your card there. Alert the business or terminal operator so they can check it.
- If you suspect your card information was captured: Contact your card issuer promptly using its official phone number or app, explain what happened, and ask what steps it recommends for your account.
- If you see an unauthorized transaction: Notify the issuer as soon as possible and follow its instructions for disputing the charge and securing the account. Reporting speed can affect liability, but applicable limits depend on the card and circumstances.
- Report suspected skimming: The FBI identifies the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) as a reporting channel for suspected skimming.
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