Beware of “Shimming”: The Evolving Threat to Your Credit Card Security at Service Stations and ATMs
Paris, France – July 1, 2025 – A new and sophisticated form of electronic fraud, known as “shimming,” is emerging as a significant concern for consumers utilizing payment terminals at service stations and automated teller machines (ATMs). This insidious technique allows criminals to covertly capture your sensitive financial information, potentially leading to unauthorized transactions and identity theft. As reported by Journal du Geek, shimming represents a silent threat that operates with remarkable discretion, making it challenging for even the most vigilant users to detect.
What is Shimming?
At its core, shimming involves the insertion of an ultra-thin device, often referred to as a “shim,” into the card reader slot of a payment terminal. This shim is designed to be exceptionally slim and discreet, often no thicker than a credit card itself. Its primary purpose is to intercept the data that is transmitted from your credit or debit card when it’s swiped or inserted.
Unlike older forms of card skimming that might involve noticeable tampering with the card reader, shimming devices are engineered to fit seamlessly within the existing hardware. This makes them incredibly difficult to spot with the naked eye, as they don’t typically alter the physical appearance of the terminal.
How Does Shimming Work?
When you insert your card into a compromised terminal, the shim activates. It effectively acts as a “man-in-the-middle,” capturing the encrypted data as it flows between your card and the payment system. This data often includes your card number, expiration date, and potentially even your CVV code. In some advanced cases, shimming devices can also be equipped to capture PINs through overlay keypads or by subtly recording keystrokes.
The captured data is then either stored locally on the shim for later retrieval by the fraudsters or, in more technologically advanced attacks, transmitted wirelessly to a hidden receiver. This allows criminals to create counterfeit cards or make fraudulent online purchases using your stolen credentials.
Why Service Stations and ATMs are Prime Targets:
Service stations and ATMs are particularly vulnerable to shimming attacks for several reasons:
- High Volume of Transactions: These locations experience a constant stream of customers, providing ample opportunities for fraudsters to deploy and retrieve their devices without drawing undue attention.
- Public Accessibility: Many payment terminals at service stations and ATMs are located in semi-public areas, making them accessible to anyone looking to install a shimming device.
- Brief Interaction Time: Customers typically spend only a short amount of time at these terminals, limiting their opportunity to thoroughly inspect the card reader for any anomalies.
- Limited Security Oversight: While reputable establishments have security measures in place, it can be challenging to constantly monitor every single payment terminal for the subtle presence of a shimming device.
What You Can Do to Protect Yourself:
While shimming is a concerning threat, there are proactive steps you can take to significantly reduce your risk:
- Visually Inspect Terminals: Before inserting your card, take a moment to glance at the card reader. Look for anything that appears loose, misaligned, or unusually thick. Wiggle the card reader gently – if it feels loose, it might be compromised.
- Shield Your PIN: Always cover the keypad with your free hand when entering your PIN, regardless of whether you suspect tampering. This is a crucial step to protect your PIN from shoulder surfing or sophisticated keylogging devices.
- Use Contactless Payments When Possible: Contactless payment methods (tap-to-pay) are generally more secure against shimming attacks, as they don’t require insertion of the card into a reader slot.
- Monitor Your Bank Statements Regularly: Keep a close eye on your bank and credit card statements for any suspicious or unauthorized transactions. Report any discrepancies to your bank immediately.
- Choose Reputable Locations: While not foolproof, opting for well-known and reputable service stations and banks can offer a slightly higher level of security due to their likely more robust security protocols.
- Be Wary of Suspicious Behavior: If you notice anyone lingering around ATMs or payment terminals in a way that seems unusual, it’s best to be cautious and perhaps use a different terminal or location.
- Consider Chip-and-PIN Security: Ensure your card utilizes EMV chip technology and always opt for the PIN-based transaction when given the choice, as this adds an extra layer of security.
As technology continues to evolve, so too do the methods employed by cybercriminals. Staying informed and vigilant are your most powerful defenses against emerging threats like shimming. By implementing these simple precautions, you can help safeguard your financial information and enjoy a safer transaction experience.
AI has delivered the news.
The answer to the following question is obtained from Google Gemini.
Journal du Geek published ‘Stations-service, distributeurs… c’est quoi le shimming, cette nouvelle arnaque indétectable qui cible vos cartes bancaires ?’ at 2025-07-01 08:30. Please write a detailed article about this news in a polite tone with relevant information. Please reply in English with the article only.