How the Secret Service is cracking down on card-skimming scams

The U.S. Secret Service has intensified efforts to combat card-skimming scams, which target the personal information contained on bank and government benefit cards. These scams are becoming increasingly prevalent, according to the agency. Skimming devices, which capture account details and PINs, can be installed on card readers in seconds.

Once in place, the devices capture data every time a card is used, often transmitting it wirelessly to criminals. A single skimmer can potentially generate up to $1 million in stolen funds. The Secret Service removed over 400 illegal skimming devices in 2025, but estimates suggest this is only a small fraction of the total devices in circulation.

In 2025 alone, the agency and law enforcement partners investigated 32 active skimming cases across 15 states. Criminals behind these scams are believed to be organized groups from Eastern Europe, Asia, and Central and South America, often entering the U.S. from Canada or Mexico. Stores accepting government assistance cards, which are often swiped rather than tapped or chipped, are particularly vulnerable.

Victims of skimming scams often face significant financial losses and limited options for recovery due to the complexity of the transactions. In one recent operation, law enforcement visited 328 businesses in California and removed 16 skimmers, preventing an estimated $16.6 million in fraud losses. To protect themselves, consumers are advised to minimize swiping of cards, particularly at major retailers and in areas where skimming is more common. Using tap-and-pay options is recommended as the most effective method to prevent card-skimming.