Police warn of gas station skimming devices

This morning, employees at an Exxon gas station discovered something wrong with one of the business’s pumps, uncovering the second attempt at gas station credit card fraud in the city this month.

Sarasota Police Department employees discovered a skimming device, used to steal credit card information, at the gas station located at 1841 S. Tamiami Trail. On Feb. 3, a Department of Agriculture employee discovered a similar device at the Marathon gas station located at 2000 N. Washington Blvd.

Authorities encouraged customers who have purchased gas at either of those stations to closely monitor bank statements for unauthorized activity. It is unknown how long the skimming devices have been present at either location.

In a release, the police department advised customers at gas stations to check for red anti-tampering tape at each pump. Anyone who discovers missing or damaged tape should contact store employees.

“The information might not be sold for a year or two, three years down the line, so it’s hard for us to track where it goes,” police spokeswoman Genevieve Judge said. “Check your bank statements and check the gas pumps just to protect yourself.”

If you have information regarding either case, contact the SPD Criminal Investigation Division at 316-1199. People can also leave an anonymous tip with Crime Stoppers by calling 366-8477 or visiting the organization’s website.