Authorities warn residents to beware of “skimming” – a tactic used by criminals to steal banking and other personal information

State Police in Oswego County are investigating a ‘skimming’ case, where numerous customers potentially had their personal banking info stolen at Fulton Walmart.

What is skimming? According to the State Police and the FBI, it’s a term used to describe criminals who illegally install cameras and other devices on ATMs, fuel pumps and other points of sale with aims to capture, record and steal one’s banking and other personal information.

For this case in particular, Walmart officials in Fulton told police the device was discovered on July 5. Police investigators have determined it was installed somehow on July 2.

In general, authorities urge residents to be aware of such devices that may lurk on your local fuel pumps, ATMs and other points of sale.

If an ATM, fuel pump or any other point of sale looks tampered with, police strongly urge to be cautious and to consider, if possible, making your transaction face to face with a clerk or employee.

NYSP image.