Sen. Formica Urges Caution When Buying Gas

Sen. Paul Formica today shared information from the state’s Department of Consumer Protection (DCP) about credit card “skimmers” being found on Connecticut gas pumps.

“As families prepare to hit the road this holiday season, drivers are being told to be careful about using credit or debit cards when buying gas,” Sen. Formica said. “Thieves are breaking into gas pumps to install skimmers on card readers, which then are used to steal card information.”

Sen. Formica said one way drivers can protect themselves is to look for the pump’s seal to determine if it has been tampered with. The normally red label should be intact. If the seal is broken, don’t use the pump and report it to the station attendant.

Another way drivers can protect themselves is to pay for the gas inside, instead of at the pump. Paying with cash is also a way to prevent your credit information from being stolen.

“The holidays should be a happy occasion,” Sen. Formica said. “Hopefully this information will prevent thieves from spoiling it for you and your family.”