Devices Recorded Card Numbers, ATM PINs In Philadelphia: Police

PHILADELPHIA – A credit card fraudster has targeted Philadelphia, as well as Montgomery and Bucks counties, and Philadelphia Police are searching for the suspect, hoping the public can identify him.

According to police, a device was placed over an ATM card reader and a second device was placed over the machine's cash dispenser on multiple occasions and locations.

The device was placed over cash dispensers and contained a small camera that recorded PIN entries from bank customers, police said.

Police said two were found on ATMs in Fox Chase and Willow Grove.

Skimmers are small devices affixed to a card reader, allowing a thief to illegally collect the credit and debit card information of unsuspecting customers. Most commonly, card skimmers are put on ATMs, gas station pumps or self-checkout machines.

The typical ATM skimmer is smaller than a deck of cards and fits over an existing card reader, says PC Mag.

Experts say you shouldn't use ATMs if you notice obvious signs of tampering or if the machine looks suspicious or different than normal.

"One giveaway that you might be at risk is if a terminal looks especially wide — since any overlay skimmer piece will inevitably take up extra space," says Mic.com in an article shared by Solebury Township Police via Facebook.

Anyone who recognizes the individual is urged to contact the Philadelphia Police Department Major Crimes Unit at (215) 686-3396, (215) 686-3397, or dial 911.

Images via Philadelphia Police