Got hit with debit card fraud...beware of this location...

[oeketer]

So I filled up with some gas at the Shell station located at major mac and the 404. I went into the gas store to pay at the cashier and I paid with my debit card. The cashier swiped my card. I thought all was good, the transaction went as they usually do and I was on my way.

I got home about 30 min later and there was a message on my voicemail from banks fraud dept asking me to call them back. I did, and the rep on the phone told me that my card has been compromised, and my limits reduced to $1 so that no one can use my card to take money out. She also asked me to go into any branch and replace my card asap.

Here is what she told me that kinda surprised me. She advised me not to use that gas station if I can, or to pay at the pump if I must go there because that location has been flagged as a high fraud location. She said they have had a lot of issues with ppls cards being stolen from that location. I mentioned it to my mom when she came home, and she told me her bank called and told her the same thing when she used her debit card there a few months ago.

If this is such a known location for debit card fraud....why are they still in business?

[13inches]

Everytime I've talked to someone involved in debit card fraud (aka skimming), the bank NEVER disclosed the suspected location due to "ongoing investigations."

I'm really suspect of them telling you the location.....

BTW: Protect your PIN, and change it often!

[Fanboy]

Everytime I've talked to someone involved in debit card fraud (aka skimming), the bank NEVER disclosed the suspected location due to "ongoing investigations."
+1.

Very strange. I've only had my PC Financial card compromised once (with an ominous message about my bank account being suspended due to ongoing police investigation that made me re-examine all my recent dealings for larceny on my part - :lol:), but my Scotiabank coworker is on his 5th card in 2 years.

Not sure if he's dealing with more nebulous characters, or if Scotia is a little more proactive in its investigations.

And in all six cases above, the bank never mentioned the suspected location.

[nogoro]

would this risk be eliminated if I pay at the pump? Is it possible to catch the thief in the act if I pay more attention, i.e. see them swipe it twice?

[kingsley]

Use your credit card.

[westernartic]

would this risk be eliminated if I pay at the pump? Is it possible to catch the thief in the act if I pay more attention, i.e. see them swipe it twice?

Even if you do see them do it.There is not alot you can do.

[Ebola]

Another reason why I don't use my debit card except at the bank.

They are too easy to compromise, no security features.

[ShopperfiendTO]

would this risk be eliminated if I pay at the pump? Is it possible to catch the thief in the act if I pay more attention, i.e. see them swipe it twice?

Reduced but not eliminated. The pump's reader might be compromised as well (just like bank's ATMs at malls, etc.). You always have to be diligent before swiping.