If you’ve used your debit or credit card at a pharmacy checkout recently, you may have unknowingly brushed up against a high-tech scam.

Authorities in Savannah, Georgia have discovered nearly undetectable card skimming devices at major chains like CVS, Walgreens, and Murphy Express—and shoppers are being warned to stay alert.

These sleek, near-invisible devices can steal your bank details in seconds—and the scammers are getting more brazen, installing them in busy, well-lit locations right at the front of trusted stores.



You’ve likely heard of skimmers on ATMs—but the new trend is even more dangerous. Skimmers are now being planted directly on checkout terminals at drugstores and gas stations.

According to Detective Eric Rhimes of the Savannah Police Department,

“Surprisingly, they've been in well-lit, well-maintained drugstores, CVS, Walgreens–right by the front entrance of the drugstores.”

Criminals can install a skimmer in just seconds, often while pretending to make a purchase, and disappear unnoticed—leaving behind a device that can silently siphon card details from dozens of unsuspecting customers.


Skimming technology has become so advanced that it’s almost impossible to detect without knowing what to look for. Here’s how it works:

• Card reader insert: A counterfeit reader is placed into the card slot, recording card numbers during insertion.
• Keypad overlay: A fake keypad placed over the real one records your PIN as you enter it.
• Quick setup: Thieves install both components quickly, often while pretending to shop.

Once the data is stolen, it’s used to clone cards or drain accounts, often before the victim even notices anything is wrong.



Also read: She lost $17,500 to a bitcoin ATM scam—what happened and how to stay safe

Although modern skimmers are designed to blend in perfectly, there are still signs savvy shoppers can catch:

• Loose or wobbly keypad: Real keypads are securely installed. Any movement is a red flag.
• Bulky or misaligned card slot: If it looks or feels unusual, trust your instincts.
• Card gets stuck or feels tight: Don’t force it. Walk away and notify store staff.
• Unusual attachments or stickers: Any added hardware around the machine could be a cover for hidden cameras.
• Tiny cameras nearby: Look for small holes or odd devices near the screen or keypad area.

“If that keypad [is] moving at all, it’s very likely a fake one,” said Detective Rhimes.



Also read: This online scam completely drained her bank account—Here’s how you can avoid the same disaster

The good news? You can take simple steps to outsmart these scammers:

1. Check before you swipe: Gently tug the card reader and keypad. If anything feels off, don’t use it.
2. Use contactless payments: Tap-to-pay methods like Apple Pay, Google Pay, or tap-enabled cards are immune to skimmers.
3. Cover the keypad: Always shield your hand when entering your PIN—even if no one’s around.
4. Monitor your accounts: Check your statements regularly for unauthorized charges.
5. Report anything suspicious: Let store staff and the police know if something looks or feels wrong.

If you suspect a skimmer stole your information:

• Call your bank immediately: Cancel your card and dispute any suspicious charges.
• File a police report: This helps authorities investigate and track trends.
• Check your credit reports: If your info may have been compromised, place a fraud alert or credit freeze.

Local and federal authorities—including the US Secret Service—are now involved in tracking down the criminals behind these incidents.

Scammers often target older shoppers, believing they may be less familiar with card reader changes or less likely to report fraud.

Read next: Protect your hard-earned cash: how a woman was duped out of her life savings by cunning "Amazon" scammers

Have you ever spotted a skimmer? Have you switched to contactless payments, or do you prefer traditional methods? Share your stories and questions in the comments—we’d love to hear from you and your tips could help someone else avoid becoming a victim.