PAINTED POST – The New York State Police in Painted Post is investigating the use of a credit card skimming device at Walmart in the town of Erwin, Steuben County.
State police say store employees discovered the device and immediately removed it. The skimming device had been manufactured to fit over the existing credit card scanner. It was equipped with a similar keypad and markings and was used to steal account information from unsuspecting customers.
The investigation determined that three subjects had entered the establishment on the morning of July 3, 2023, and secretly installed the device. The investigation further revealed that these same individuals are suspected of conducting numerous similar incidents throughout the Southern Tier and Central New York areas.
State Police are investigating similar incidents at other Walmart locations, including Norwich and Granby. At the Norwich location, the suspects are reportedly also two men and a woman.
Shoppers are reminded to check for inconsistencies with the equipment when swiping their cards. Signs may include loose-fitting covers, misaligned card readers, or an oversized appearance.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the New York State Police SP Painted Post at 607-962-3282.