Check card readers for tampering or skimming: Installing a skimming device over the pump's credit card slot is a popular scam.
Check Tamper-Evident Security Stickers: Fraudsters may break into gas stations to install skimming devices hidden from customers.
Block hidden cameras from seeing your PIN: Thieves sometimes place tiny pinhole cameras above the keypad to record customers entering PIN numbers with card skimmers.
Reduce RFID Card Scanning Risk: RFID scanners are another advanced menace. RFID smart chips make credit and debit cards vulnerable to electronic pickpocketing.
Trust Your Gut—Pay Cash If Something Seems Off: Trust your instincts and avoid using a credit card at a petrol station if something seems odd.
Monitor Statements and Set Transaction Alerts: Even if you take safeguards, check your credit card and bank statements often.
Enable Card Use Alerts to Catch Fraud: Set notifications for transactions over $100 because skimmed card data may be used for online buying without real cards.
Safeguard with Gas Station Gift Cards: Consider buying prepaid gift cards instead of credit or debit cards if you frequent certain petrol stations.