Beech Tree News Network

According to Butler County Sheriff Scottie Ward, several local individuals have had their credit cards skimmed.  Although their cards never left their possession, someone has their card information and is making fraudulent charges on their accounts. 
“At least one of the cards has been used at Walgreens in Bowling Green and we have a video surveillance tape we are reviewing at this time,” said Sheriff Ward. "A person could place a skimming device on a gas pump, a ATM or a Redbox, leave it for a while, return and take it off  without being detected."

According to Ward, thieves use a device to steal credit card information in an otherwise legitimate credit or debit card transaction. For example, credit card skimming devices are often placed on ATMs or even held in the hands of waiters and store employees. When a credit card is run through a skimmer, the device stores the credit card information. Thieves use the stolen data to make fraudulent charges either online or with a counterfeit credit card. In the case of ATM and debit cards, thieves withdraw cash from the linked checking account. Credit card skimmers are even popping up on Redbox movie rental kiosks.
Victims of credit card skimming are often unaware of the theft until they receive a billing statement or overdraft notices in the mail.

"The best way to detect a skimmed credit card is to mointor your checking and credit card accounts as often as possible," said Sheriff Ward.

Restaurants and gas stations seem to be the places where credit card incidents happen most frequently. That's because cardholders are comfortable letting their cards leave their sight in these places. But, if you can't see your credit card, it could be getting skimmed.

"Please contact the sheriff's department (270-526-3676) if you have any information or have been a victim of skimming," added Sheriff Ward.