Texas Thieves Target Abilene Gas Station With Card Skimming Device

Let’s be real, it probably isn’t the first time Abilene’s seen this scam, but it’s a reminder Texans need to keep their eyes peeled. Card skimming is back in the spotlight after Big Country Homepage reported a device found on a gas station keypad.

Think of these things as credit card vampires, lurking in plain sight, quietly sucking up your numbers while you’re just trying to grab some unleaded and maybe a Slim Jim for the road.

According to the report, the device was found at the Allsup's in the 2300 block of Barrow Street - basically the one right in front of Planet Fitness.

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This Ain’t New, But It’s Here Now

Card skimming’s been around forever in big cities in Texas, but it’s slowly creeping into smaller towns. And now? Boom—Abilene’s turn.

I don’t know about you, but I’m ticked. I always check card readers now. I jiggle, I tug, I probably look like I’m trying to break into the pump. But hey, better a few weird looks than waking up to charges from some dude in Florida buying jet skis on my dime.

How to Avoid Getting Skimmed

As I mentioned, I go out of my way to make sure the card reader I’m using isn’t some skimmer that takes my hard-earned money. Here are some ways to make sure you don’t get scammed by a bunch of losers.

• Inspect before you swipe. Wiggle the keypad or card slot. If it looks bulky or loose, walk away.
• Use tap-to-pay. Most phones and cards have it, and it’s harder for scammers to skim.
• Go inside. Old school, I know, but paying the cashier directly is way safer.
• Check your statements. If you see charges you didn’t make, report them immediately.

I hate that we even have to deal with this garbage. But here we are, Abilene now has skimmers. Stay sharp, stay safe, and don’t let some low-life steal your hard-earned money while you’re just trying to top off your tank.

Stay vigilant out there, Texas!

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