TEXAS — The thought of someone stealing your credit card information at the gas pump can make filling up the tank nerve-racking.
- Check Bluetooth for long string of numbers
- Exxon and Shell have pay apps
- Paying cash is safest way
Nearly 80 credit card skimmers have been found throughout the state of Texas so far this year.
RELATED | Austin Gas Stations: Where Credit Card Skimmers Were Found
"It’s one of the number one issues, consumer protection issues in Texas right now. So it’s a huge deal and people are starting to get on board trying to fight this," said Maddison Jaureguito of the Texas Department of Agriculture.
Skimming criminals continue to find tools to cover their tracks.
"As technology evolves so do the skimming devices. So they are constantly trying to take it to the next steps and staying ahead of law enforcement so that they can keep getting your money," said Jaureguito.
Several card skimmers were found in Central and South Texas this month.
"It does make me a little bit weary,” said driver Lindsey Jacobs. “I have had my credit card number stolen before through online shopping, so it’s always in the back of my mind when I’m using my credit card."
"If you pull up to a pump and you want to bring out your iPhone or whatever phone you have and look at your Bluetooth you can see if there is a string of numbers. Hmm, maybe that doesn’t look right,” said Jaureguito. “There might be a skimmer in that pump."
But skimming devices may have just met their match. Gas companies now have apps that let you avoid swiping at the pump all together.
The ExxonMobil Speedpass Plus app connects your credit card to the pump and you are able to get gas without ever having to swipe.
Shell also has an app that provides this service.
If technology just isn't your thing, officials also offer phone-free advice.
"Your safest bet is going to be paying with cash because that’s when you’re gonna walk away knowing you aren’t being scammed," said Jaureguito.
Locations where credit card skimmers have been found since the beginning of 2019:
