A skimmer is an illegal device used by criminals to steal credit or debit card information. It is typically attached to card readers on ATMs, gas pumps, or point-of-sale terminals to capture data from the magnetic strip on cards when they are swiped or inserted. Some skimmers also include hidden cameras or fake keypads to record the PIN entered by the cardholder. The stolen data can then be used to create counterfeit cards or make unauthorized transactions

Key points about skimmers:

• They are designed to look like part of the legitimate card reader, making them difficult to detect visually.
• Skimmers can be bulky or raised on the card slot or keypad area, and may have tape residue or loose fittings.
• Hidden cameras may be installed to capture PINs.
• Some skimmers can wirelessly transmit stolen data in real time.
• Skimming fraud costs financial institutions and consumers over $1 billion annually

How to spot a skimmer:

• Check for anything unusual on the card slot or keypad, such as bulkiness, loose parts, or tape residue.
• Wiggle the card reader or keypad to see if anything feels loose.
• Look for small cameras aimed at the keypad.
• Use mobile apps designed to detect Bluetooth signals from skimmers.
• Prefer ATMs and pumps in well-lit, monitored locations

Other meanings:

• A skimmer can also refer to a kitchen utensil, a flat sieve-like spoon used for skimming liquids or lifting food from hot oil

In summary, a skimmer in the context of card fraud is a covert device that steals card data and PINs from unsuspecting users at ATMs or payment terminals