New Warning: How to Detect Hidden Skimmers on Payment Terminals

Consumers Urged to Vigilantly Check Payment Terminals for Skimmers. A recent public service announcement by cybersecurity expert María Aperador has brought renewed attention to the persistent threat of credit card skimming. The video, which has garnered significant online engagement, demonstrates how fraudulent devices can be subtly attached to payment terminals, silently stealing sensitive financial information from unsuspecting consumers. Aperador explains, "It's super important that you look closely at the data terminal before inserting your credit card or tapping your mobile for contactless payments." She illustrates how these "skimmers" often appear as seamless additions to legitimate terminals, making them difficult to detect without a physical inspection. The expert advises consumers to "make sure it doesn't have any strange objects on the keypad or in the slot for inserting the card." The video showcases examples of compromised terminals, revealing the hidden electronics designed to capture card data. If a device feels loose or has unusual components, Aperador recommends caution. "This won't take you more than 10 seconds," she assures viewers, emphasizing the quick and easy nature of a preventative check. For those with lingering doubts about a terminal's integrity or an establishment's reliability, she offers a simple solution: "simply pay with cash." This proactive approach aims to empower individuals to protect their financial security in an increasingly digital transaction landscape.