Credit card thieves on the rise: How to protect yourself against skimmers

The warning against credit card thieves has become greater after 64 skimmers were found around Arizona Friday.

Since January 2017, officials have found dozens of the devices in areas ranging from Tucson to Phoenix.

However, police said there are ways consumers can protect themselves against credit card thieves.

Edith Ruiz, Yuma Police Department Public Information Officer, said people can start by using a credit card instead of a debit card when paying for gas.

“If you’re going to use your debit card or your credit card, choose credit,” Ruiz said. “But if at all possible, use the pumps near the cashier.”

Moreover, police said consumers should check if a gas pump has been tampered with by wiggling the credit card slot or checking if the pump is loose.