Law enforcement agencies in Tampa conducted a payment card skimming outreach operation on November 19, resulting in the removal of five illegal skimming devices from local businesses. The U.S. Secret Service led the effort, working with the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, Pasco County Sheriff’s Office, Tampa Police Department, and Florida Department of Agriculture.
During the operation, officers visited 390 businesses and inspected more than 4,400 point-of-sale terminals, gas pumps, and ATMs. Authorities estimate that removing these devices prevented a potential loss of about $5.2 million.
Teams also distributed educational materials to help business owners identify illegal skimming devices on their equipment. Robert Engel, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Secret Service’s Tampa Field Office, stated: “Illegal skimming devices placed by criminals can have major impacts on consumers and businesses. Proactive operations such as this remove illegal skimming devices off the streets before stolen card numbers fall into the hands of criminals. We are thankful to the agencies that participated in this operation and are committed to working alongside our law enforcement partners to further combat credit card skimming.”
This initiative is part of ongoing efforts by the U.S. Secret Service and its partners across the country to address payment card fraud.
Skimming occurs when criminals install unauthorized devices on ATMs or other payment terminals to steal card information. The data is then encoded onto counterfeit cards for fraudulent use. Skimming costs financial institutions and consumers over $1 billion annually.
Authorities advise consumers to inspect card readers for signs of tampering before use, opt for tap-to-pay or chip-enabled cards when possible, shield PIN entries at keypads, use well-lit indoor ATMs when available, and remain alert for suspicious activity—especially in tourist areas.
