Shimming Scam: Banks and Service Stations Targeted by New Fraud

Criminals are deploying “shimming,” a sophisticated card fraud, to steal your banking data at service stations and ATMs. This undetectable scam is causing increasing concern for consumers, making it crucial to understand how this threat operates.

Understanding the “Shimming” Threat

This new type of fraud, “shimming,” is challenging to spot. It involves criminals inserting a device into card readers. This thin device, or “shim,” secretly copies your card data. It then allows criminals to create counterfeit cards.

The “Shimming” scam. A thin device, or shim, is inserted into a card reader, and secretly copies your card data, allowing criminals to create counterfeit cards. #Shimming #Fraud #ATM pic.twitter.com/L2kK4wI5bB

— Fraud Fighter (@FraudFighter) February 4, 2024

“The scam is difficult to detect, and very worrying,” explained cybersecurity expert Dr. Emily Carter.

—Dr. Emily Carter, Cybersecurity Expert

Reports indicate card fraud has increased by 25% in the last year (Statista 2024), reflecting the rising success of this scam.

How the Scam Works

Criminals insert a small device into card readers at ATMs and gas stations. When a card is inserted, the “shim” copies the card’s information. This data is later used to create duplicate cards.

As this scam becomes more prevalent, it is essential to stay vigilant and protect personal financial information. This will help reduce the risk of becoming a victim of “shimming.”