The U.S. Secret Service announced on April 15 that it prevented an estimated $13.5 million in losses to consumers in the Dallas area during a two-day outreach operation focused on illegal payment card skimming and Electronic Benefit Transfer fraud.
Law enforcement teams visited 462 businesses across Tarrant County between April 13 and April 14, inspecting more than 2,939 point-of-sale terminals, gas pumps, and ATMs for illegal skimming devices. Educational materials were also distributed to help business owners identify potential threats from these devices.
"EBT fraud is a serious threat impacting families nationwide. Our investigative teams are committed to dismantling these skimmer operations and holding perpetrators accountable. Collaboration with our partners is essential, and together we are making significant strides in protecting the community," said Special Agent in Charge of the Dallas Field Office Christina Foley.
The operation involved personnel from several agencies including the Tarrant County Sheriff’s Office; police departments from Euless, Mesquite, Plano, and Roanoke; USDA-OIG; Texas Financial Crimes Intelligence Center; and Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation.
Assistant Special Agent in Charge Michael Peck of the Secret Service Criminal Investigative Division said: "The individuals behind these schemes are relentless, but so are we. Through coordinated efforts and innovative investigative methods, we are disrupting their operations and ensuring that those who exploit vulnerable families are brought to justice."
According to information provided by the U.S. Secret Service, criminals often use illegal skimming devices placed on ATMs or merchant terminals to steal payment card numbers by copying data onto another magnetic strip card for fraudulent use. Skimming is estimated to cost financial institutions and consumers over $1 billion annually nationwide.
Consumers are advised to inspect card readers for anything unusual before use; utilize tap-to-pay or chip cards when possible; shield PIN entries at gas stations or ATMs; prefer indoor machines which may be less vulnerable; and remain vigilant especially in tourist areas where such crimes can be more frequent.
Illegal skimming devices can closely resemble legitimate keypads for point-of-sale terminals making them difficult to detect.
