The Campbell County Sheriff’s Office has issued a new warning about credit card skimming. The CCSO first issued this caution last year in July, but it has renewed its warning this month.

“We have recently been made aware that the Lynchburg area is experiencing reports of card skimmers again,” the CCSO announced. Because of this, we are resharing this information to remind our citizens and hopefully help prevent our citizens from becoming victims of this crime.

“Please take extra time to check before you use your cards. And, of course, if you find your card has been skimmed, please give us a call,” the sheriff’s office urged.

In its original statement, the department stated, “We are investigating these occurrences and are in the process of contacting gas stations in Campbell County about this.”

CCSO also provided this information and the following tips. “We want to keep our citizens aware to reduce the chances you get scammed by these skimmers. Below are some tips regarding card reader usage:

  • Always check the card reader area. While card skimmers are not always noticeable from the outside of the gas pump, there are things you can look for like a loose or bulky card reader (photo 1), an extra piece to the card reader (photo 2), card readers that are a different color than other parts of the pump, and a card reader that partially covers up markings like arrows or instructions.
  • Check gas pump seal (photo 3). If it looks like it’s been tampered with, inform a gas station employee.
  • Cover your pin entry when using the keypad (or use credit option). Scammers will sometimes leave a small camera to attempt to see you enter your pin. Covering your entry can help deter this.
  • Periodically check your credit card and debit card statements to ensure all transactions are correct.
  • Report fraud both to your bank/ credit card company and to local authorities.”