Local law enforcement reminds public to watch for card skimming

ODESSA, Texas (KMID/KPEJ) – People heading to gas stations could unknowingly be a victim of something Odessa Police Department Corporal Steve LeSeur said happens year-round: credit card skimming.

“What’s happening is these thieves are placing these little, tiny cameras on there, trying to retrieve your pin,” he said

Ector County Sheriff’s office Investigator Chris Bell said the crime could happen at any time and is a fast-growing issue.

“The last six months of 2023, Midland and Odessa altogether had more skimmer cases than anywhere in the nation,” he said.

The OPD also said the most common examples of skimmers include placing plastic covers on top of credit card readers and keyboards at gas pumps. LeSeur noted some other indicators of skimmers’ activity include a hidden camera and inconsistent lighting.

“Be aware of your surroundings everywhere. It doesn’t matter which gas station or grocery store you’re at. Always look for those little cameras, those devices, if they can come off easily, things like that,” LeSeur said.

Bell said one way to possibly reduce your chance of getting skimmed is to use a pump closer to a convenience store. Odessa police also recommend that you use your zip code instead of your credit card number when paying for your gas.

“A skimmer can be put on a pump within a matter of seconds, so the ones that are further away from the clerk are easier to put on and get out of sight and start the skimming process,” he said.

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