How do I avoid card skimmers at ATMs and gas pumps?
Reviewed answer
Use caution with altered terminals, shield your PIN, and monitor your account.
- Avoid a terminal with loose, mismatched, or damaged parts. Tell the operator rather than trying to remove anything.
- Cover the keypad when entering a PIN and choose chip or contactless options where available.
- Check account alerts for unfamiliar activity. If you suspect exposure, contact the card issuer about replacement and disputed charges.
Get help if
Unfamiliar withdrawals or small test charges appear. A terminal looking normal does not guarantee it is safe.