Business Watch
NEWS: Increase in “Skimming” Devices Located in Area Businesses
September 23, 2025
Over the last few weeks, law enforcement agencies around Oregon have reported seeing an uptick in a form of credit card theft called “skimming,” including multiple devices located in Hillsboro.
Skimming occurs when thieves place a small reader device over the point-of-sale terminal that gleans information when the customer inserts, swipes, or taps a credit card. Depending on the terminal, some devices may even include small cameras to record PIN numbers. Thieves then recover that information and make fraudulent purchases.
While skimming has primarily been used at gas pumps and ATM machines, recent reports include devices found at point-of-sale terminals at retailers, restaurants, and small businesses. It is also becoming more common during the busy, sometimes hectic, holiday shopping season.
Skimming devices are designed to look like credit card terminal technology, but often can be detected through a basic physical inspection of the device. Skimmers are often placed on top of a machine in haste, which can lead to odd angles or misalignments that appear correct upon a brief glance, but may not be secured. If any part of the machine can be easily moved, wiggles, or otherwise feels off, it may have a skimming device attached.
Pay extra attention to any customers who fumble, play with, or hold a machine while they use their card, or who take longer than normal to insert a chip or type a pin. Skimmers also seem to work more commonly in pairs, leaving one customer to use the terminal while the other attempts a distraction. Whenever possible, do not walk away from a point-of-sale terminal while it is being used and make it a habit of inspecting a keypad or terminal if it is left alone with a customer at any point.
The Forest Grove Police Department recommends that local business owners take time to inspect their point-of-sale terminals on a regular basis, and train any staff who work directly with the machines to pay special attention to any unusual activity on part of customers and make checking for devices part of their routine.
Should you find a device or you think your customer’s information may have been stolen, contact the Washington County non-emergency number at 503-629-0111. Forest Grove Police are available 24/7; never hesitate to give us a call if something doesn’t look or feel right.
Remember, it’s always better to err on the side of caution.
For more information, contact Forest Grove Police Community Outreach at 503-992-3104 or email Lquinsland@forestgrove-or.gov.
CRIME PREVENTION PROGRAMS: Business Watch
Your business is an integral part of our community. Our Business Watch presentations offer valuable knowledge to help you protect your livelihood, safeguard your business, and support your fellow business owners. Whether you're a small shop or a larger operation, the information you'll receive will be crucial for enhancing the safety and security of your environment.
What You’ll Learn:
- How to recognize suspicious activity and red flags that could indicate a threat to your business or others in your area.
- Best practices to protect your business from theft, fraud, and other risks.
- How to build a safer business environment by fostering strong relationships with neighboring businesses.
- How the Forest Grove Police Department can support your efforts and when to seek their assistance.
Who Can Participate
Local business owners, managers, and staff who want to strengthen security and awareness in their commercial areas.
We can also tailor presentations for your staff and employees.
Meetings can be arranged around your schedule, including evenings and weekends with advance notice.
For more information, contact Community Outreach at Lquinsland@forestgrove-or.gov or call 503-992-3104.