GASTONIA, NC — Police are investigating an increase in fraudulent purchases that they believe may be caused by skimmer devices being used in Gaston County.
Officials say 19 cases of fraudulent charges were reported between March 26 and March 30. All but one of the victims were from Gaston County.
Investigators believe skimmers were used to steal information and pin numbers off of the victim’s debit cards at ATMs and gas stations.
The Gastonia Police Department has put together a list of tips that could help you avoid becoming a victim.
- Look for broken security seal stickers at the gas pump, or anything that looks out of place at ATMs.
- Using only cash for purchases, or a credit card not connected to your bank account. (With a credit card you have 30 days to dispute transactions as opposed to debit cards that withdraw money immediately from your bank account when the transaction is made.)
- Routinely check your bank and credit card accounts to make sure there are no fraudulent transactions.
- Create a daily spending limit on accounts that notify you when the limit is exceeded.
- Businesses can also create an ATM checking routine to look for and report any skimmer device.
If you find a skimmer device you are asked to contact Detectives immediately at 704-866-6880 or Patrol on nights and weekends at 704-866-3300.
