City of Newton, IA

09/05/2024 | Press release | Archived content

Newton Police Investigating Credit Card Skimming Operation

Newton Police are investigating another suspected skimming operation following several reports of fraudulent credit card transactions. Residents have reported issues after fueling at World To Go, located at 405 1st Ave. E. in Newton. The Newton Police Department has also received similar reports over the past three weeks at both World To Go and Git-N-Go (1st Ave. W). These skimming incidents are believed to have begun in early July 2024.

The Iowa Department of Agriculture inspected all gas pumps in Newton on September 5 and found no skimming devices. the Iowa Department of Agriculture did find signs of tampering at a few pumps. Police caution that skimming devices can be easily installed and removed, so residents should remain vigilant. The investigation into the skimming activities and associated fraudulent transactions is ongoing.

Newton residents who purchased fuel at these locations are encouraged to monitor their bank statements and contact law enforcement if any suspicious activity occurs.

Spotting a Skimmer

While some gas pump skimmers are undetectable, others may show signs that the device does not belong. First, jiggle the credit card reader a little. Does it move, or seem like it doesn't quite fit into place? If it does, don't use it and notify the management.

Other physical indicators include being oversized, sticking out strangely, having cracks or damage to the reader, or having arrows or lines that don't align with the pump.

You can also compare the card reader on your pump to those on neighboring pumps. Do they look the same? Despite careful inspection, some skimmers are impossible to spot, as they connect to the credit card reader internally and aren't visible from the outside of the pump. All gas pumps are supposed to have tamper proof security seals affixed to the locked operating system so that businesses can easily spot tampering.

How to Protect Your Information

So what can you do to avoid having your credit card information stolen at the gas station? The most effective way is to simply pay inside with an attendant. Most people don't want to do that, however, especially when in a hurry. If you do choose to pay directly at the pump, there are ways to protect yourself to some degree.

Here's what you can do:

  • Remember to inspect the card reader using the tips above.
  • Pay with credit, not debit, if you can.
  • Pay with a chip or contact-free method, such as Apple Pay. Gas pump skimmers can only read the magnetic strip on your card.
  • Avoid using your PIN or enter it discreetly. Some criminals install hidden cameras to catch this information.
  • Pay at the pump closest to the building. Because it's often being watched by attendants inside, it's harder for criminals to tamper with.
  • Set your payment cards to notify you for purchases over a certain amount.
  • If something feels off, it might be worth it to mention it to an employee, find another way to pay or go somewhere else.

Business Responsibilities and Victimization

Customers aren't the only victims of skimming. Businesses suffer from the associated costs, including a damaged reputation and lost sales. These best practices can help your customers and your business keep safe from skimmers.

  • Make pump inspection part of the daily routine for employees.
  • Use and track pump security seals. These large labels are adhered to the pump near the credit card reader. If the pump panel is opened, the label will read "void," which means the machine has been tampered with.
  • Log the serial numbers on the seals. Thieves can use counterfeit security stickers, so make sure serial numbers on the seals match your station's master list.
  • Look for warped or protruding surfaces. For example, card readers and PIN pads not flush with the pump's door panel are a warning sign.
  • Be suspicious of people who claim to be technicians performing unscheduled work. Check IDs and confirm scheduled work appointments. Check on vehicles parked at the pumps for a long time.
  • Shut down and bag suspect pumps, and have the machine checked for skimmers.