Credit Card Skimmers Discovered at Sarasota Gas Station

                                                                                                               NEWS RELEASE #: 16-206 - NOVEMBER 16, 2016

Skimmer 3 web
The Sarasota County Sheriff's Office is alerting the public about a credit card skimmer discovered at a Sarasota gas station on Monday.

Deputies responded to the BP in the 1600 block of N. Lockwood Ridge Rd around 2:30 p.m. when a call came in that a skimmer had been discovered inside one of the gas pumps. The skimmer was removed and collected as evidence.

Customers who have purchased gas at this location are encouraged to check bank statements for any suspicious transactions, no matter how small the amount. Patrons should also remember these safety tips:

• Pay with cash inside the store when possible. If you don't have cash, use a credit card instead of a debit card. Credit cards have better fraud protection.
• Check for signs of tampering at the pump. This includes a broken security seal over the door. If something seems out of place, notify gas station personnel.
• Monitor bank statements regularly to spot unauthorized charges. If something doesn't add up, contact your bank immediately.

Anyone with information regarding these skimming devices should contact the Sarasota County Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigations Bureau at 941.861.4900 or submit an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers of Sarasota County by calling 941.366.TIPS (8477), online at www.sarasotacrimestoppers.com.