San Angelo Police Warn Public About Card Skimming Devices

SAN ANGELO, TX — The San Angelo Police Department is alerting residents about recent card skimming incidents reported in surrounding areas, urging the public to take precautions when using card readers. While no confirmed cases have been identified in San Angelo, police said criminals are increasingly targeting payment terminals with devices designed to steal card information.

Card skimmers are often placed on ATMs or checkout machines and can capture both card details and PIN numbers. Police said these devices are becoming more advanced and harder to detect, sometimes mimicking real payment terminals.

Officers shared examples of how to spot a fake reader: wider borders, faint or absent key backlighting, a frame that feels loose or detachable, unusually thick keys, sticky or spongy key response, and wider spacing below the keys.

To reduce risk, police recommend using the tap method when paying with a card, checking bank accounts daily for suspicious activity, and setting up bank alerts for withdrawals or balance changes. Shoppers are also urged to report any card readers that appear loose, damaged, or suspicious to store staff immediately.