x
Breaking News
More () »

E-skimming: The new tactic cybercriminals are using to steal your info

Using your credit card or debit card anywhere can leave you open to scammers, but now the FBI is warning online shoppers about a new tool thieves are using.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — You might've seen skimmers at gas stations or even the ATM and now there's another place you need to look out for: The internet. 

Using your credit card or debit card anywhere can leave you open to scammers, but the FBI is warning online shoppers that hackers are on the prowl for their card number and personal information at checkout. 

So how does an "e-skimmer" work? Let's connect the dots

Click here to sign up for the daily Wake Up Charlotte newsletter

Thieves use code to steal your info

Online thieves will put a code on a website that captures your credit card information when checking out. The data then gets sold to other hackers or used to make fraudulent purchases. 

You won't know until it's too late

The worst part? The FBI says it's really hard to know if your information has been stolen until it's too late. 

Play it safe

Luckily, there are some steps you can take to help keep your finances secure. Experts say your best bet is to use a third party, like Apple Pay or PayPal. 

Businesses big and small that take online payments are all at risk for taking your information. So before you start adding things to your cart,  you might want to start taking some precautions. 

Contact Ben Thompson at bthompson@wcnc.com and follow him on FacebookTwitter and Instagram.

Wake Up Charlotte To Go is a daily news and weather podcast you can listen to so you can start your day with the team at Wake Up Charlotte
SUBSCRIBEApple Podcasts || Spotify || Stitcher || TuneIn || Google Podcasts  

All of WCNC Charlotte's podcasts are free and available for both streaming and download. You can listen now on Android, iPhone, Amazon, and other internet-connected devices. Join us from North Carolina, South Carolina, or on the go anywhere.  

Before You Leave, Check This Out