Visa reports new POS fraud
Visa Inc. reported in a Sept. 1, 2011, bulletin that thieves can now skim credit cards from POS PIN entry devices (PEDs) using Bluetooth technology. Visa said thieves are removing the original PEDs and replacing them with modified devices. The rogue devices skim account and PIN information entered at the POS and transmit the data automatically via Bluetooth to the crooks. Surveillance video reveals the criminals are able to swap the PEDs in seconds.
Visa said the Bluetooth skimming problem can be addressed using a terminal authentication system to constantly affirm the PED's serial number and be sure the terminal is online and running correctly. To further help prevent skimming Visa recommends:
- Regularly inspecting terminals to identify anything out of the ordinary, including missing or altered seals or screws, unusual wiring, new holes in the device, or new labels or other devices that could disguise damage done to the device
- Securing terminals and cable connections to a solid anchor like a counter to prevent theft of PEDs
- Locking unused terminals in secure storage
- Tracking all devices to be certain they are secure and unaltered
- Checking all repair technicians' credentials to be sure they are legitimate
- Weighing devices to compare current weights to manufacturer specifications
- Periodically scanning for any unknown Bluetooth signals
Visit usa.visa.com/merchants/index.html for more information on fraud control.
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