This is tough to combat since it’s not a skimmer, but malware. I’ve seen some local places deploying chip technology on the pumps, but many still just use the mag stripe.
If it asks you to leave the card in the slot during authorization, at least it’s using the chip.
Other tips to consider when paying at the pump:
- Use pumps closest to the cashier and front doors. Bad guys don’t like to work where good guys have visibility, so skimmers tend to be at far-away pumps
- Use credit cards over debit cards if in doubt. It’s easier to deal with a compromised credit card than having your bank account emptied
- When in doubt, pay inside
Erich Kron is the Security Awareness Advocate at KnowBe4, and has over 20 years’ experience in the medical, aerospace manufacturing and defense fields. He is the former security manager for the US Army 2nd Regional Cyber Center-Western Hemisphere.