Operation Skim Scam: Detectives Recover 20 Skimmer Devices in Stores

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Fairfax County, VA – Detectives from our Financial Crimes Unit, with the assistance of the United States Secret Service (USSS), conducted a countywide skimmer-detection operation at more than 100 locations across Fairfax County resulting in the recovery of 20 credit card skimming devices. During this operation, detectives and USSS agents searched 287 Point-of-Sale (POS) Terminals, 158 ATMs, and 46 gas pumps. Skimming devices were located at multiple convenience stores, discount stores, and grocery stores throughout Fairfax County and the Town of Herndon.

Detectives diligently work to spot skimming devices before they are used to steal personal information. By staying proactive and partnering with federal agencies, detectives remove dangerous devices and protect our community from identity theft and financial loss.

Below are photos of skimming devices that were recovered:

Detectives continue to work closely with the United States Secret Service to review the recovered devices and identify any suspects linked to their installation. While no arrests were made during this operation, the partnership allows investigators to share data, analyze patterns, and pursue leads that may connect these devices to larger fraud networks.

How to Protect Yourself from Skimming Devices

Credit card skimming devices are often small, discreet, and designed to blend in seamlessly with legitimate card readers. They can be found at ATMs, gas pumps, and even self-checkout machines. Here are some tips to help protect yourself from becoming a victim:

  • Inspect before you insert. Before using an ATM or gas pump, look closely at the card reader and keypad. If the card slot looks loose, bulky, or mismatched in color or material compared to the rest of the machine, it could be a skimmer.
  • Check for hidden cameras. Skimmers are often paired with tiny cameras aimed at capturing your PIN. Look for any unusual attachments, pinholes, or objects positioned near the keypad.
  • Do not accept assistance from anyone you don’t know while using an ATM or payment device. Scammers sometimes pose as helpful bystanders to distract you or capture your information.
  • Cover your PIN. Always use your hand to shield the keypad while entering your PIN, even if you don’t see anything suspicious.
  • Use familiar or well-lit locations. Whenever possible, use ATMs inside banks or high-traffic areas where criminals are less likely to install devices unnoticed.
  • Monitor your accounts regularly. Review your bank and credit card statements frequently for unauthorized transactions, even small ones, which can signal a compromised card.
  • Use contactless payment methods. Tap-to-pay cards or mobile wallets provide an extra layer of protection, as they don’t transmit your physical card data.

If you believe you’ve been a victim of skimming or notice a suspicious device, do not attempt to remove it. Instead, call our non-emergency number at 703-691-2131.

Anyone with information regarding skimming devices installed at these locations are encouraged to call our Financial Crimes Unit at 703-246-3533. Tips can also be submitted anonymously through Crime Solvers by phone – 1-866-411-TIPS (866-411-8477), and by web – Click HERE. Download the ‘P3 Tips’ App “Fairfax Co Crime Solvers”. Anonymous tipsters are eligible for cash rewards. Please leave contact information if you wish for a detective to follow up with you.  

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