Police investigating gas station credit card fraud

BARSTOW • Police believe a credit card scam first discovered at a Valero gas station last August may still be operating.

Police are warning anyone that has purchased gas from the Valero gas station at 2824 Lenwood Road over the last year that they be victims of credit card fraud. A maintenance worker contacted the Barstow Police Department after finding a small device attached to the credit card reader inside of a gas pump in August 2008, according to Chief Dianne Burns. Police believe the device was put inside the pump to record customers’ credit card information and personal identification numbers when they use a credit or debit card to purchase gas.

The device in the pump was removed, but on Tuesday someone reported that they had their identity stolen after using a credit card at the station according to Burns. Burns said only an expert pump mechanic would be able to identify the device during servicing.

A similar device was found inside a pump at a Chevron gas station on Main Street, according to Burns.

Burns said police are not sure if any other Valero gas station has had a similar problem. She asked Valero customers to check their credit card records for suspicious activity and to pay with cash if possible.

To report fraud or information relating to the incident, call the Barstow Police Department at 760-256-2211. To remain anonymous, call we-tip at 1-800-78-CRIME or visit www.wetip.com.

Contact the writer:
(760) 256-4126 or dheldreth@desertdispatch.com