TUCSON, Ariz. (KGUN9-TV) -- Skimming devices were discovered hidden inside of gas pumps at two stations on the eastside.
The Tucson Police Deparment says they were found within the last week at the Circle K at Tanque Verde and Kolb, and the Circle K at Golf Links and Harrison.
Sgt. Rick Randinsky with TPD's Financial Crimes Unit says in one instance the device was discovered by an employee of the gas station. The other was found by the Arizona Department of Weights and Measures during an inspection.
There is now way to tell how long the devices had been there, Randinsky said, or if your information was stolen.
"At this point it's a national trend," Randinsky said. "The magnetic striped cards, they are trying to steal the data while those cards are still useful."
The magnetic strips are where the data on the credit cards is encoded, so Randinsky says if thieves are able to swipe that information than they can essentially clone your card or sell your data.
Sgt. Randinsky says it can take less than a minute to install the skimmers, and they are almost impossible for customers to detect. There are however things you can do to protect your information.
Below are a number of precautions:
- pay attention to your surroundings and be alert for signs of tampering
- if you notice suspicious activity, report it to the gas station staff
- some gas stations have security stickers. If you notice one that is damaged notify staff and use a different pump
- check your bank accounts frequently and if you notice anything unusual report it to your bank
If you have any information about the recent incidents, call 911 or 88-CRIME.
