Secret Service Seizes 35 NYC Card Skimmers, Blocks $36.5M Fraud

A recent crackdown on financial fraud in New York City highlights a persistent threat to consumers: card skimmers. In a coordinated three-day effort, the U.S. Secret Service and its partners uncovered and removed 35 illegal card skimming devices from payment terminals across the city, preventing an estimated $36.5 million in potential fraud losses. This operation serves as a critical reminder for everyone to stay vigilant when paying with a card.

Details of the NYC Anti-Skimming Operation

From June 23-25, 2026, fourteen multi-agency teams swept through Brooklyn, The Bronx, and Queens, inspecting thousands of payment terminals for tampering. The operation was extensive, covering 1,010 businesses and 3,935 individual terminals.

The illegal devices were found scattered across the boroughs:

• 15 in Brooklyn
• 10 in Queens
• 9 in The Bronx
• 1 in Manhattan

This successful effort was a collaboration between the Secret Service, the New York Police Department (NYPD), the NYC Department of Investigation, and the USDA Office of the Inspector General. Officials emphasized the importance of these proactive measures, especially as the city prepares for major events. With the FIFA World Cup expected to bring an additional one million people to NYC, Special Agent in Charge Matt McCool noted that the city is a "target-rich environment" for this type of crime.

The National Fight Against Skimming Fraud

This wasn't a one-off event. It marked the fourth major anti-skimming operation conducted by the Secret Service in New York City. Combined, these efforts have removed 133 devices and prevented nearly $139 million in potential losses in the city alone.

The problem, however, is a national one. Criminals install these small, hard-to-detect devices on ATMs, gas pumps, and point-of-sale terminals to steal card information and PINs. This type of theft costs consumers and financial institutions more than $1 billion each year. In 2025, similar operations across the country led to the removal of over 400 skimming devices, stopping a staggering $428 million in potential fraud.

A key focus of these operations is protecting recipients of Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT), as many of the skimmers specifically target those who rely on SNAP benefits. According to USDA Inspector General John Walk, removing these devices protects vulnerable citizens and saves taxpayer money.

How to Protect Yourself from Card Skimmers

While law enforcement is actively fighting this threat, consumers are the first line of defense. Knowing how to identify card skimmers and practicing safe payment habits can significantly reduce your risk.

Here are some practical steps you can take:

• Inspect the Card Reader: Before you insert or swipe your card, give the terminal a quick check. Look for anything that seems loose, crooked, damaged, or out of place. Jiggle the card slot; if it moves, it could be a skimmer.
• Use Tap-to-Pay: Whenever possible, use contactless payment methods like Apple Pay, Google Pay, or tapping your card. This technology is encrypted and does not expose your card number in the same way swiping does.
• Cover Your PIN: Always use your other hand to shield the keypad when entering your PIN. Skimmers are often paired with a tiny, hidden camera to record you entering your number.
• Be Cautious at Gas Pumps: Gas pumps are a common target. If you use a debit card, consider running it as "credit" to avoid entering your PIN. Better yet, pay inside with the cashier or use a contactless payment method at the pump if available.
• Choose ATMs Carefully: Opt for ATMs in well-lit, indoor locations like inside a bank or a busy store. Be extra cautious in tourist-heavy areas, as these are frequent targets for criminals.

The Bottom Line

The Secret Service's recent success in NYC underscores the ongoing battle against payment fraud. As criminals become more sophisticated, your awareness and caution are more important than ever. By taking a moment to inspect payment terminals and using safer payment methods, you can help protect your hard-earned money from falling into the wrong hands.

Image Credit: DepositPhotos.com