MEMPHIS, Tenn. — If you've filled your gas tank at this popular East Memphis gas station since Thursday, you may want to check your bank statement for any suspicious activity, according to Memphis Police.
MPD said they responded to the MAPCO gas station on Park Avenue and Mount Moriah Road Tuesday after the on-duty manager called saying there were credit card skimmers inside pump #1 at the station.
MPD opened the panel and found card readers inside the pump, dismantling them and taking them in to evidence.
The on-duty manager told police the readers were placed on the pumps Thursday. When asked why he waited so long to call police, MPD said the manager told them another gas station employee had his credit card compromised Thursday after using the pump, and pointed to tape on the pump that shows whether it has been tampered with.
Memphis Police said they are working on accessing security footage to get suspect information.
According to the FBI, credit card skimming happens when these illegally-installed devices capture data or record cardholders' PINs. The FBI said it's estimated more than $1 billion is stolen each year from skimming.
The FBI gives these tips when you're at the fuel pump to avoid becoming a victim of credit card skimming:
- Choose a fuel pump that is closer to the store and in direct view of the attendant. These pumps are less likely to be targets for skimmers.
- Run your debit card as a credit card. If that’s not an option, cover the keypad when you enter your PIN.
- Consider paying inside with the attendant, not outside at the pump.
