BRENHAM POLICE CAUTIONING PUBLIC AFTER CONFISCATING CREDIT CARD SKIMMER
Brenham police are warning the public of credit card skimmers.
Police are reminding citizens to be cautious when using credit card readers, particularly at gas stations, where a Bluetooth credit card skimmer was said to recently have been used.
Sergeant Jason Derrick said police first received reports of compromised credit cards in early-mid April, and confiscated the skimmer on May 1st. Police said they would not release the location of where the skimmer was found.
The skimmer confiscated uses Bluetooth technology, which transmits data wirelessly to a digital device. Police said it attaches to hardware on the inside of the pump, so it can be difficult to know if a Bluetooth skimmer is being used.
The safest way for people to protect their cards from being skimmed is to either use those cards inside the store, or pay with cash. Another possible method is for people to use their mobile phone at the pump to search for unfamiliar Bluetooth devices.
The Brenham Police Department encourages anyone who has used a card to purchase fuel from any convenience store to closely monitor their account for any unauthorized charges, and to make a police report if they discover fraudulent activity.
Anyone with questions can call the Brenham Police Department’s non-emergency line at 979-277-7373.