Avoiding Debit and Credit Card Skimming

Having a merchant account can benefit virtually any type or size of business, as this can be an ideal way to process transactions conveniently and quickly. Credit card processing, however, is not completely without risk, as individuals intent on committing fraud may attempt to skim electronic information for their own gain. While skimming may create all types of problems for victimized consumers, a retail establishment may suffer losses by way of damaged reputation, customers, and revenue.

Skimming Defined

Skimming involves the electronic capture of customer credit card information by way of a handheld device, or through a stationary device placed where credit or debit machine transactions occur. Accordingly, the captured information is sold in order to create counterfeit cards and access unsuspecting customer accounts. As a business owner, your merchant services may be viewed as unsafe if the fraudulent activity happens at your location but this website will help you avoid such incident.

Where Skimming Occurs

While skimming may occur at virtually any retail outlet that processes credit or debit card payments, certain types of establishments are often more susceptible than others. This may be due to a variety of internal or external factors that are inherent to certain establishments in particular. Security, or the lack of it, may also make certain businesses more vulnerable than others, but the following are often viewed as likely targets:

• Bars
• Gas stations
• Restaurants

Minimizing your Skimming Risk

There are many ways to reduce your exposure to such fraudulent activity, and such safe practices may be used by merchants as well as consumers. As a merchant, you would be wise to consider the viewpoint of your customers when you select any merchant account procedures. This should include reviewing safe practices with your employees, and carefully monitoring who has access to credit card information. Good ways to avoid credit card skimming include:

• Keeping the credit or debit card in sight of the customer
• Treat the card as if it were cash
• Monitor receipts and store them securely

If you can avoid having your employees processing transactions out of customer view, this may safeguard both you and your customers from being victimized by employees intent on skimming. Remembering that your merchant account processing is tantamount to handling cash from the viewpoint of your customers may underscore how important it is to be careful who you let access your credit or debit machine.

Choosing a Merchant Account Provider

Choosing a reputable merchant account provider is a straightforward way to end up with a quality product for your establishment. Setting out your merchant account device is but part of the equation when it comes to accepting payments in this manner. Communicating with your merchant account provider about ways to minimize risk may make your merchant account a wonderful feature for your business.