Credit Card Skimming
Because of credit card skimming, consumers aren't the only ones concerned about credit card theft.
Skimming is a crime that involves grabbing the data off of your credit card at the point of sale and using that data to manufacture fake credit cards or purchase items using the data. A dishonest employee (grocery checker or restaurant waiter) will use a portable electronic device, such as a PDA hooked to a card reader. When no one's looking, customer credit cards are swiped to extract their data.
Credit card skimming is a modern crime perpetrated by technically savvy criminals, but stealing credit card numbers can be done by anyone, anywhere without fancy electronics. Any employee with access to customer credit cards can copy the information with nothing more than a pen and paper. If you're a business owner and this happens enough you could be labeled a "point of weakness" and face steep fines from the credit card companies.
How to avoid Credit Card Skimming
In your workplace:
- Watch for anyone using a device that is not part of your daily activities.
- If anyone offers you money to record account information
- If anyone asks for customer account information over the phone
- Watch for the newest con game which is using a photo cell phone to take a picture of the care.
If any of the above occurs contact your credit card merchant center immediately.
Heads Up to the Warning Signs of Credit Card Fraud
Watch out for customers who:
- Purchase products but care little about colors, sizes or price.
- Don't ask questions about expensive items
- Try to divert your attention during a sale
- Complete a transaction and return later to make additional purchases.
- Make large purchases just after opening or right before closing.
- Refuse free delivery on large items.
If you suspect Credit Card Fraud
- Hold onto the customer's credit card if you think you can do so safely.
- Follow your employer's procedures and notify you supervisor.
- Call your voice authorization center and request a "code 10 authorization" in a very normal tone as to not alert the customer. The operator will tell you what to do.
Caution: Never risk your own safety of the safety or others in the immediate area.
