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Simple ways to keep your card safe from skimmers

Blog Post
2 min read
woman using card at the gas pump

The price per gallon isn't the only thing you should look at when paying at the gas pump these days. Before swiping your card, look closely at the card reader. You might be staring at a skimmer. It's a sneaky device that criminals attach to payment machines and ATMs to steal your card information. The good news? A few quick habits can help keep your money right where it belongs. With you!

Most skimmers can copy your card information, but the tactic is most successful when your PIN is captured, too. That means protecting your PIN is just as important as protecting your physical card. Here are a few tips to help you swipe safer:

1. Give the Machine a Wiggle Test

Before you swipe your card at a gas pump, ATM, or kiosk, grab the card reader and give it a tug. If it feels loose, bulky, or like it's not part of the machine, walk away. Skimmers are often added on top of the real card reader and can sometimes be spotted with just a little shake. This also applies if you're inserting your chip card for payment. Although chip cards are more secure than magnetic stripe cards, fraudsters can still use a similar technique called "shimming" to capture your card information from the chip. 

2. Cover Your PIN

When entering your PIN, cover the keypad with your hand, phone, or wallet (even if no one’s around). Some crooks set up tiny hidden cameras nearby to catch your keystrokes. It might feel silly at first, but shielding your PIN makes it much harder for them to complete the scam.

3. Use ATMs You Know and Trust

Use ATMs at your financial institution or inside a store whenever possible. They’re better monitored and less likely to be tampered with. Avoid standalone machines in corners or dimly lit areas, which are prime targets for skimmers.

4. Tap Instead of Insert

Many cards (including SAFE's) now offer contactless tap-to-pay, which skips the card reader altogether. If the machine allows it, tapping your card or using your phone’s mobile wallet (like Apple Pay or Google Pay) can be a safer bet.

5. Keep an Eye on Your Transactions

Check your account regularly. The sooner you spot unusual activity, the sooner we can help. If anything looks out of the ordinary, give us a call right away at 800-763-8600.  You also can set up alerts to get notifications for purchases over a certain amount and for periodic balance updates. It’s like having an alarm system for your card. 

6. Don’t Ever Share Your PIN

This one might seem obvious, but it’s incredibly important. Never share your PIN, even with people you trust. No one from SAFE will ever ask for it, and neither should a cashier, friend, or “tech support.”

Card skimming may sound high-tech and scary, but keeping your card safe is mostly about staying aware and forming a few smart habits. Remember to trust your gut if something doesn't feel right. And, if you ever have questions or spot suspicious activity, your SAFE family is just a call or click away.