Secret Service Seizes 16 Skimmers, Prevents $16.6 Million Fraud in California Sweep
Updated
Updated · CBS New York · Aug 12
Secret Service Seizes 16 Skimmers, Prevents $16.6 Million Fraud in California Sweep
1 articles · Updated · CBS New York · Aug 12
Summary
A California operation inspected 1,749 card readers at 328 businesses and removed 16 skimming devices, blocking an estimated $16.6 million in fraud losses, the Secret Service said.
The agency says skimming has risen over the past two years as organized groups use hidden devices and wireless transmitters to steal card data and PINs, often from terminals that can be compromised in seconds.
Government benefit cards are especially vulnerable because many still require swiping rather than chip or tap payments; victims can struggle to recover stolen funds spread across multiple aid programs.
In 2025, the Secret Service removed more than 400 skimmers nationwide, while 32 active federal investigations across 15 states point to a broader crime wave costing consumers and financial institutions over $1 billion annually.
Will the nationwide push for tap-to-pay technology finally eradicate card skimming, or simply force criminals to develop more advanced digital weapons?
As Bluetooth skimmers become nearly invisible, is your local gas station unknowingly transmitting your bank details to international thieves?
Why are foreign crime rings specifically targeting America's most vulnerable citizens through their grocery benefits?