Clearwater Police Find New Kind Of Skimmer On Gas Pump

CLEARWATER, FL — Clearwater Police are conducting a fraud investigation after a new kind of skimmer was found on a gas pump at a convenience store.

Police officers and detectives responded to the 7-Eleven at 205 N. Belcher Road Tuesday morning after store employees were unable to open one of the pumps. When it finally was opened, police found a new high-tech version of a skimmer that had not been previously seen in Clearwater.

The skimmer was Bluetooth-equipped, allowing the thief to sit nearby and gather card information without ever having to visit the pump again. Police believe the device has been in place about a week.

Detectives are urging anyone who may have purchased gas at Pump 9 to closely watch their bank and credit card statements. Fraudulent charges could pop up at any time - now or in the future.

People who used the pump are advised to cancel the credit card they used to pay for their gas.

Detectives say it is best to use a credit card instead of a debit card when making gasoline purchases. They also recommend looking for the tape that seals the pumps, though that is not a guarantee that the pump has not been tampered with.

Paying for gas inside the store is safer than paying at the pump. Pay with cash if possible.

Anyone with information on the 7-Eleven fraud case should call 727-562-4242.