As gas stations with pay-at-the pump, ATMs and other unattended machines where you scan your credit card get hit by skimmers tampering with their equipment, some businesses are taking preventative measures by way of a simple sticker.

Eagle-eyed Consumerist reader Leah spotted a sticker on the pump at her local Shell, asking customers to alert the cashier if the decal was broken, which would indicate the machine had possibly been tampered with.

In August, the Association for Convenience & Fuel Retailing (NACS) released a statement outlining the ongoing problems retailers are having with skimming, and introducing a WeCare Decal and its benefits to both stores and customers.

The security labels are to be used on fuel dispensers near the credit/debit card transaction area. If the label is lifted to insert a skimming device, a “void” message appears on the label, providing a visual alert to store employees so that additional action can be taken. Because the labels clearly indicate that they are to prevent tampering, the labels help assure customers that their data is secure, and discourage criminals targeting the store.

We’ve got one question — why aren’t more businesses and ATMs using these simple little stickers? Feel free to email any you spot to thetipline@consumerist.com.

Skimming at the Pump Threatens Retailers [NACS Online]

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