According to a Howe Police Department press release, officers recovered credit/debit card skimming devices from two gas pumps at the Valero gas station Monday afternoon. Sgt. Michael Hill reported that on March 6, 2017 around 4:00pm, they were alerted by the Texas Department of Agriculture that there were two gas pumps at the Valero gas station with possible skimming devices mounted inside them.
Sgt. Hill stated “These are not the type of skimmers we have seen recovered in other areas. Unless you looked inside the pumps and knew what to look for, you would have no idea a skimmer was installed.” Sgt. Hill reported that the devices recovered appear to be equipped with Bluetooth technology. Hill added, “The person(s) who installed them would likely be able to access captured credit/debit card data remotely.” 
Sgt. Hill said they are actively investigating a case reported in February in which a victim’s checking account was depleted after an unauthorized person obtained his debit card number. Police say they believe the victim’s information was obtained by the use of these skimmers.
Sgt. Hill recommended the following tips to reduce your chances of becoming a victim:
- When possible, always pay with cash inside the store or use a credit card instead of a debit card. Credit cards have better fraud protection.
- Check for signs of tampering of the gas pump. This includes a broken security seal over the door. If something seems out of place, notify gas station personnel.
- Monitor your bank statements regularly for unauthorized charges and notify your bank immediately if your account has been breached.
Anyone with information regarding the recovered skimming devices should contact Det. Keith Milks at 903-532-9971.
