Information collection devices hidden in three Aldi self-checkouts – shoppers who visited between certain dates must check bills

SHOPPERS at supermarket chain Aldi may have fallen victim to possible fraud after the company revealed credit card fraud devices were found in its payment terminals.

The company posted a statement on its website warning shoppers about credit card skimmers found in its terminals and telling customers what they can do.

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“The issue may have affected the payment card information of customers who swiped their cards at the affected terminals during the relevant period, including cardholder names, card numbers, card expiration dates, card pins and security codes ”, Aldi informed customers.

Customers at three locations in Southern California and two locations in New Jersey were at risk of having their information stolen.

“After becoming aware of the issue, we quickly removed the affected terminal devices at each of the five stores and took steps to secure our systems and determine the nature and scope of the issue,” the company continued.

“We have also reported the issue to payment card brands and law enforcement.”

“Additionally, we conducted additional reviews at ALDI stores across the country to help prevent similar issues.”

The company apologized for the danger it put its customers in and instructed them to contact their card issuers for help if they believe their card information has been compromised.

“We assume our obligation to protect the customer information very seriously and are alerting customers to this issue so they can take steps to protect themselves,” the company said.

“If you believe your payment card information may have been affected, please contact the issuer of the card used at the affected store to inform them.”

Last year, more than 52 million Americans were victims of credit card fraud, Security.org reported.

More than 90% of these scams occurred without the thief having access to a physical card.

Credit card fraud is a common method used by fraudsters to steal victims’ personal information.

Card skimmers can be commonly found in point-of-purchase machines such as ATMs, ticket dispensers and self-service kiosks.

Card skimmers are often too small to be noticed immediately, and can sometimes even be placed inside the card slot so victims have no idea they are being scammed. First credit union reported.

Criminals can hide a small camera near the machine to record the victim entering their PIN when making a purchase.

Fortunately, there are several ways buyers can avoid becoming potential victims of fraud.

When you first go to a self-service machine, such as an ATM or ATM, do a quick check of the machine.

Make sure nothing has been tampered with and that there are no stark differences between the machine you are using and neighboring machines.

When you start using the machine, check the keyboard for any obvious devices that may have been placed there, and lock your PIN as you enter it.

Other ways to avoid being a target of credit card fraud is to use your mobile wallet, check in inside if possible, and only use ATMs provided by the bank you use.

If you suspect that any of the machines you used have been tampered with, report it immediately to a manager and contact your credit card company.