Shimmers: The Invisible Credit Card Threat
New shimmer devices make credit card fraud nearly undetectable. Learn how these slim skimmers work and protect yourself from payment theft.
Credit Card Fraud
By Elke Porter | WBN Ai | July 14, 2025
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Police are warning businesses and consumers about a sophisticated new credit card fraud device that has emerged as a more dangerous successor to traditional skimmers. "Shimmers" - ultra-thin devices that fit inside card readers - are proving nearly impossible to detect and represent a significant escalation in payment fraud technology.
Unlike bulky skimmers that attach to the outside of card readers, shimmers are designed with an extremely slim profile that allows them to be inserted directly into the card slot. Criminals can install these devices quickly and discretely while appearing to make a normal purchase or withdrawal, making detection extremely challenging for both businesses and consumers.
The technology behind shimmers is alarmingly sophisticated. These devices contain microchips capable of recording complete information from chip-enabled cards, including PIN numbers. The data extraction process is equally covert - criminals return later with a specially programmed card that downloads all captured information during what appears to be a routine transaction. This stolen data is then used to create counterfeit cards for fraudulent purchases.
Law enforcement officials report that shimmers have effectively rendered traditional skimmers obsolete due to their superior concealment capabilities. The devices are completely invisible from the outside, eliminating the visual cues that previously helped consumers identify compromised terminals.
One of the most reliable warning signs is when cards become stuck inside readers. Recent cases have shown that shimmers can cause cards to jam, particularly during daily security testing conducted by vigilant retailers. Businesses are strongly encouraged to implement regular testing protocols for their point-of-sale terminals.
Security experts recommend that consumers utilize contactless "tap" payment methods whenever possible, as this technology transfers only limited banking information that cannot be used for card cloning. The tap function provides an additional layer of security against shimmer attacks.
The emergence of shimmers represents a concerning evolution in payment fraud, with their sophisticated design and organized deployment suggesting involvement of criminal networks. Both retailers and consumers must remain vigilant and report any unusual card behavior immediately to prevent becoming victims of this advanced fraud scheme.
Based on reporting from CBC News regarding RCMP warnings about shimmer devices found in Coquitlam, B.C.
TAGS: #Credit Card Fraud #Shimmer Alert #Payment Security #Fraud Prevention #Contactless Payment #CyberCrime #WBN Ai Edition #Elke Porter
Connect with Elke at Westcoast German Media or on LinkedIn: Elke Porter or contact her on WhatsApp: +1 604 828 8788. Public Relations. Communications. Education.
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