Walmart Warning: Customers Urged to Check Payment Cards for Fraud

In December, skimming machines were discovered in two Walmart stores near Salem, North Carolina.

Photo byMarques ThomasonUnsplash

These hacking devices were used to steal financial information from victims' payment cards throughout the month. Many of the victims were EBT card holders or received Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits. It is possible that the fraudulent activity may also be occurring in other Walmart stores.

Customers who believe they may be affected are urged to check their accounts for missing funds and contact their bank or the number on the back of their EBT card.

What are Skimming Machines?

A skimming machine is a device that attaches to a card reader and is disguised as a normal card reader. It is meant to "skim" your credit card and steal financial information. Skimmers can usually be found attached to card readers in stores, ATMs, or gas pumps. It is estimated that these scams cost financial institutions and consumers more than $1 billion each year, according to the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

How to Spot a Skimming Machine:

To protect yourself from falling victim to a skimming machine, officials recommend looking for odd wires sticking out of the ATM or card reader, as well as for any tape or tape residue on the slot. Additionally, if the reader is an "off" color compared to the ATM or card reader, it may be a skimmer.

Conclusion:

In light of the recent discovery of skimming machines at two Walmart stores in North Carolina, customers are urged to check their payment cards for fraudulent activity. Those who believe they may be affected should contact their bank or the number on the back of their EBT card to check their account for missing funds. It is important to be vigilant in protecting your financial information and to report any suspicious activity to the authorities.

What Are Your Thoughts?

Have you ever fallen victim to a skimming machine? What precautions do you take to protect your financial information when using payment cards? Have you encountered any skimming machines at stores, ATMs, or gas pumps in the past?

Let me know what you think in the comments below!