SELF-CHECKOUT users have been warned to check the payment machines before using them after data-stealing devices have been found.
Two unidentified retailers in Rochester, Minneapolis, were targeted by thieves who attached what is known as a skimmer device to a self-checkout.
Card skimmers steal the banking data of anyone who uses an ATM, self-checkout, or self-service gas pump with the device fitted to it.
“RPD received a report of ‘skimmers’ on self check-outs at two large retailers in Rochester last week,” the department told Post Bulletin.
“Skimmers are attachments installed on card readers that collect debit and/or credit card numbers.
“Criminals place them on self check-outs, gas pumps, and ATMs.”
Lt. Ryan Lodermeier of the Rochester Police Department detailed how one of the devices in Minneapolis was discovered.