Here's how this happens in most cases: 1. Shopping online - Never make purchases while on unsecured networks i.e, free WiFi at Starbucks. Sensitive Data Packets can easily be intercepted by the bad guy in the parking lot who is equipped with the proper hardware and knowledge. Use PayPal or purchase a pre-loaded card instead like Visa One Vanilla that are not connected to your life savings. 2. Independent ATM's - Privately owned ATM's i.e, at a nightclub or corner store are typically not under surveillance. Skimmers, readers and other hw/sw can be attached/installed and some can even take hi-def images of the front and back of your ATM card. ALL Banks and Credit Unions are required by the FDIC, FCUA or other applicable governing regulators, to have 24/7 surveillance to prevent tampering, fraud, etc. 3. Restaurants - Think about the turnover rate and caliber of employees that some restaurants, bars, pubs, etc employ? They are taking your card and leaving your presence. The bad guy who want's to do damage, can easily do so. 4. - Gas Stations - Especially smaller independents. Apply the same principles as the privately owned ATM's. Not only is the risk exposure present, they typically put holds on your card when you pay at the pump. I've seen these range from $1.00 to $125.00. Following these 4 simple suggestions will significantly reduce your layers of risk. I have some advanced suggestions if anyone is interested, let me know. Hope this helps some of you.
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