photo by Elliot Mitchell
From MPD:
“Today (Thursday), at around 12:00pm, we were made aware of what appears to be a card skimmer attached to a card reader at a convenience store in the Unit block of Peabody Street, NW. Thankfully, a resident noticed something out of the ordinary when making a purchase and reported it to police immediately. Our members responded to the location and seized the skimmer as evidence. At this time, we have not been made aware of any other incidents in the Fourth District. Our Financial Crimes Unit will be investigating this case further, however, when using a card reader, please be mindful of the following tips:
Make sure the device isn’t able to be moved or budges when touched
Compare your machine to the one next to you, if applicable
Check the alignment of the card reader and the panel underneath it
Look inside of the card reader before inserting your card
If you see or suspect a card skimmer, please contact police immediately at 911
If you or someone you know is a victim of card skimming, please contact our Financial Crimes Unit at 202-727-4159
Notify your bank immediately if you suspect you have been a victim of card skimming