Police in Multiple Towns Investigating Similar Fraud Cases

Police in Langhorne Borough, Newtown Township and Middletown are working with state police and bank investigators to figure out how a group of thieves are getting debit card information from locals.

Investigators said this week they believe credit/debit card skimmers have been used to swipe information from unsuspecting locals. The data from the skimmers was then retrieved and used by thieves to make purchases in Bucks, Montgomery and Philadelphia counties.

Several of the debit card numbers were also used to make purchases in New Jersey.

In late July, a LevittownNow.com reader and victim of thieves tipped off the publication after her debit card was used in the area for fraudulent charges totaling over $1,500.

The victim, a Philadelphia resident visiting family in the area, said she had informed local authorities and came across additional information where others were bilked out of funds via bank cards too.

The woman said she was told by local authorities that skimmers were found at the gas station she patronized.

“I think the public needs to be warned and alerted,” victim said in communications with LevittownNow.com.

Langhorne Chief Steve Mawhinney said there are at least two borough residents who were victims and many of the cases appear to have one connection – the victims bought gas in Langhorne.

Newtown Township Detective Jason Harris said there are more than a dozen cases in his jurisdiction. In total, he believes there to be more than 50 victims.

No skimmers have been located, Mawhinney said, adding the suspects must have a clear plan and know what they are doing.

None of the staff at any of the gas stations have found skimmers and surveillance video has been of little help, Langhorne’s chief said.

Harris said all the victims had money taken from their debit cards and no victims who used credit cards have come forward.

Card skimming happens when readers have been set from criminals to look normal, but underneath they have a small “boot” that captures your information and stores it for the crooks.

“It is extremely difficult for the average person to detect the device over the card slot reader. However, credit card companies can help. If you submit a fraud claim, credit card companies can find patterns based on where their cardholders shop and investigate specific locations,” according to the FBI.

The FBI has the following tips:

• Inspect the ATM, gas pump, or credit card reader before using it. Be suspicious if you see anything loose, crooked, or damaged, or if you notice scratches or adhesive/tape residue.
• When entering your PIN, block the keypad with your other hand to prevent possible hidden cameras from recording your number.
• If possible, use an ATM at an inside location (less access for criminals to install skimmers).
• Be careful of ATMs in tourist areas. They are a popular target of skimmers.
• If your card isn’t returned after the transaction or after hitting “cancel,” immediately contact the financial institution that issued the card.

Editor/ Publisher Jeff Bohen contributed to this report.