Secret Service Investigation Finds 17 ‘Skimming’ Devices in San Antonio—Warns Consumers and Business Owners to Be Aware
San Antonio saw a busy sweep as federal agents and local officers checked businesses for skimming devices that target everyday shoppers. Teams moved through stores, gas stations, and ATMs to catch hidden tech that steals card data. Their work pulled several devices before scammers could drain accounts. Families who depend on EBT cards often face the worst losses, so many shoppers feel relieved when they hear about efforts that block thieves from grabbing their card details.
Secret Service Operation in San Antonio
Secret Service teams moved through San Antonio with local officers to check businesses for hidden skimmers, so the city saw a large sweep across two days. Agents visited hundreds of stores and gas stations and checked thousands of payment terminals. They aimed to stop scammers who target families that use EBT cards. Federal and local teams also used the operation to speak with owners and staff, and many appreciated getting clear guidance on how to spot suspicious devices.
Illegal Skimming Devices Removed
Agents pulled 17 hidden skimming devices from local businesses, and the quick action stopped scammers from grabbing card numbers that shoppers rely on. The sweep covered ATMs, gas pumps, and point of sale terminals, so the team checked a wide range of spots where thieves often plant their gadgets. Each removal felt like a direct hit against people who target EBT users, and many owners felt relieved that someone caught the problem before more damage spread.
Wide Sweep of Local Businesses
Teams moved through 712 businesses across San Antonio, so the sweep reached a wide mix of stores, gas stations, and ATMs. Agents checked more than 4,300 payment terminals and kept the pace steady as they moved from one spot to the next. Many owners welcomed the visit and liked having clear direction on what to watch for. The sweep gave them a chance to ask questions and get a closer look at how skimmers hide in everyday machines.
Business Outreach and Education Effort
Agents also handed out clear guides that helped owners spot signs of skimming, so the outreach felt practical and easy to follow. Many businesses liked having something they could reference as they checked their own machines. Teams spoke with staff, answered quick questions, and offered tips that workers could use right away. The visit gave owners a better sense of how scammers operate, and many felt more confident after learning what a hidden device can look like.
Federal and Local Agencies Working Together
Federal agents teamed up with San Antonio Police and the Bexar County Sheriff’s Office, and the group moved through the city with a shared plan. Each team brought its own experience, so the work stayed steady from start to finish. Officers checked machines, spoke with owners, and compared notes as they moved through busy areas. Many residents liked hearing that federal and local teams worked side by side, and the combined effort helped the sweep cover a wider part of the city.
How Skimmers Capture Card Information
Scammers place small devices on ATMs, gas pumps, and store terminals, and the setup sits on the machine in a way that blends in. The device reads the card’s magnetic strip, so thieves get the number without touching the card. They also use tiny cameras to catch PINs, and many shoppers never notice anything odd. Criminals then load that stolen data onto another card and use it once monthly deposits hit EBT accounts, and the theft can spread fast.
Rise of EBT Card Theft Across the Country
EBT skimming has grown in many states, and agencies keep seeing new cases appear each month. Criminals watch the timing of deposits, so they strike when families expect their funds. Many shoppers get hit without noticing anything wrong at the machine, and the theft drains accounts fast. Agents in different regions also report more devices turning up at gas pumps and store counters. The rise has pushed many families to stay alert and check their balances more often.
Ways Shoppers Can Protect Their Cards
EBT skimming has grown in many states, and agencies keep seeing new cases appear each month. Criminals watch the timing of deposits, so they strike when families expect their funds. Many shoppers get hit without noticing anything wrong at the machine, and the theft drains accounts fast. Agents in different regions also report more devices turning up at gas pumps and store counters. The rise has pushed many families to stay alert and check their balances more often.
Staying Alert at Everyday Machines
Shoppers can cut down their risk with a few simple habits, and the steps don’t take long. A quick check of the card reader helps spot anything loose or strange. Covering the keypad makes a big difference, and tap-to-pay options offer another safe route. Gas stations and busy spots deserve an extra glance. Small habits add up fast, and many families feel better when they know their cards stay protected.