Police are warning the public about credit card skimming devices found on two gas stations in Pinellas County.
According to the St. Petersburg Police Department, a device was found at one of the self-serve gas pumps at the Circle K/Shell gas station located at 10600 Roosevelt Blvd. N in St. Petersburg.
A similar device was found at a Circle K/Shell gas station in unincorporated Largo earlier this week.
Police said that it's likely that more skimmers have been placed on ATMs and gas pumps around the Tampa Bay area, and so they are reminding the public to be on the lookout for the devices whenever using their credit cards at these locations.
The following things may indicate a skimmer has been placed on a machine:
- Wires seen sticking out of the card reader;
- The card reader is loose or appears damaged;
- Tape or tape residue on the card reader slot;
- The card reader looks different or off-color from the rest of the machine.
If a skimmer appears to be attached to the machine, notify the bank or store management and make sure the local police are contacted.
Residents are also encouraged to frequently check their bank and credit card accounts for unusual or unauthorized activity. If you see anything unusual, contact your bank or credit card company immediately.