Northwest Iowa (Radio Iowa) — People are being warned about a new type of device crooks are using on gas pumps and ATMs to steal identities.
Jim Hegarty, CEO of the Better Business Bureau in Omaha/Council Bluffs, says most people have heard of “skimmers” that are placed on top of the slot where you slide a credit card. New devices are being found, called “shimmers,” that are smaller and much harder to spot.
The new shimmers will be difficult to notice for A-T-M and credit card users, while those who are wary might be able to spot the older-style skimmer.
There have not yet been any reports of shimmers being found in our area, but Hegarty says to be on guard.
Hegarty recommends paying for gas inside the store instead of using the pay-at-the-pump option, and go inside the bank for transactions instead of using an A-T-M.
