Skimmers Discovered at Sarasota Gas Station

NEWS RELEASE 18-198 - DECEMBER 7, 2018 
SKIMMERS

The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office is alerting the public about two credit card skimmers discovered at a Sarasota gas station earlier this week.
 
On Tuesday, members of the agency’s Tactical and Intelligence Units partnered with detectives as well as the Department of Agriculture to conduct an operation focused on locating skimmers at various locations throughout Sarasota County. Personnel checked more than 80 locations and located two skimmers at the Texaco Station located at 6895 S. Tamiami Trail in Sarasota. The skimmers were 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 Criminal Investigations Section at 941.861.4900 or submit an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers of Sarasota County by dialing 941.366.TIPS.