A man is suspected of taking $50,000 from victims, possibly by placing a debit card reading device somewhere in the Sacramento region.
The Folsom Police Department is asking for the public's help in finding the man who they suspect has used a "skimming device." Skimming devices have in the past been placed at gas pumps.
When customers use debit or credit cards, the skimming device reads the vital information on the card. The account information is then used by thieves to make purchases or debit accounts.
In the cases cited by Folsom police, victims began in January began to see fraudulent charges on their bank accounts. The charges were associated with their debit cards, which were still in their possession.
In all, 30 victims have been identified. Police said that the suspect typically used the victim's account information to make several modest purchases at grocery or drug stores.
Police would like help in finding the man who they suspect might be behind the skimming scam. He is in his late 20s to early 30s with short dark hair and a goatee (see photo above).
Police also said he likes to wear Armani Exchange brand clothing apparel. Victims have been identified throughout the Sacramento region.
Folsom police warn that skimming devices are designed to not be noticed at the gas pump or ATM. Small clues could suggest something is amiss: missing screws at the gas pump or anything else that is unusual.
Contact Detective Jeana Stover with any leads regarding the suspect at jstover@folsom.ca.us or (916) 355-7235.
KCRA: Credit card skimmer on the loose - July 12, 2011
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