Secret Service, Watsonville Police Investigate Cloned Bank Cards

WATSONVILLE, CA — The Secret Service and Watsonville police detectives are working to identify two men who may be part of an organized crime ring that is cloning bank cards to steal money from victims' accounts.

In Watsonville, fake cards were made after stealing bank information via credit card skimmers discovered at Watsonville's East Lake Gas earlier this month. The fraudulent cards were then used to withdraw hundreds of dollars in cash from a local bank ATM machine, according to the Watsonville Police Department.

The Secret Service is analyzing evidence collected from the gas station, including five skimmers.

Video surveillance captured the suspected thieves, and the Watsonville Police Department released it in hopes that the public can help identify the men.

"Unfortunately, there are more than 50 victims with about $20,000 in losses," the Watsonville Police Department reported.

"We ask that you please make it a habit to check your bank accounts daily, especially if you have recently used your debit/credit card at East Lake Gas. If you come across any unusual activity on your account, report it to your bank first and then call us," the Watsonville Police Department said.

If you have any information on the suspects, call Detective Tyler Wildey at 831-768-3356.