Plano Police say the devices are small and can steal your credit card information in seconds.
PLANO, Texas — As many of us are running to stores for last-minute gifts or stocking up on grocery items for Christmas, Plano Police are warning people about thieves trying to steal your holiday joy.
“These folks that are doing this are very proficient at what they do,” said Plano Police Detective Tony Vidmar.
Police said small skimming devices are capable of stealing your credit card information in seconds and Plano Police — along with several other agencies — are ramping up efforts to protect consumers.
Recently, during a citywide sweep, Plano police uncovered one of these skimmers — their second discovery in just six months. The device was installed over a point-of-sale terminal, ready to collect data from unsuspecting victims.
“We saved a potential victim from being victimized,” Vidmar shared.
Vidmar said he believes there are skimmers at places across the city. Those places include gas stations, ATMs, grocery and retail stores.
“They will collect your data,” said Vidmar. “What you’re thinking that you’re punching in, your information is going to the skimmer. “It takes a second to just distract the clerk and be able to push it on top, push it down, and it’s right in place.”
Underneath the skimmer, there’s a memory card and battery that can last for days.
While police continue their efforts to apprehend those responsible, they urge shoppers to remain cautious.