A credit card skimming device was discovered at a 7-Eleven in Mt. Ephraim, New Jersey, prompting local police to issue a warning to residents. The incident unfolded earlier this week, leading authorities to investigate further as the potential for financial fraud looms large over unsuspecting customers.
According to a post on Facebook by the local police department, officers were called to the 500 block of West Kings Highway on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, after employees discovered the skimming device attached to one of the registers. Reports indicate that the device was designed to closely resemble the store’s legitimate card reader, making it easier for the perpetrators to carry out their fraudulent scheme without alarming customers.
Authorities have urged anyone who used their credit or debit card at the location recently to carefully review their banking records for any unauthorized transactions. “If you've shopped here recently, please check your statements and report any suspicious activity,” a police spokesperson advised.
This incident is not isolated, as skimming devices have been reported at several locations throughout South Jersey. Over the past year, multiple stores in neighboring Pennsauken Township fell victim to similar scams, highlighting a concerning trend in the area. In May 2024, a skimmer was uncovered at the Supremo Food Market on Crescent Boulevard, raising alarm among shoppers about their financial security.
In April 2024, another skimming device was found at a nearby location, further emphasizing the growing problem of identity theft perpetrated through such covert methods. It remains unclear how long the device at the 7-Eleven was in place before it was discovered, and officers are currently investigating if it is connected to other skimming incidents in the region.
Local law enforcement is actively calling upon residents to remain vigilant while using their cards, especially at gas stations and convenience stores, which are often frequent targets for such criminals. The ease with which these devices can be camouflaged in legitimate equipment makes it crucial for consumers to be on high alert.
Experts recommend using chip-enabled cards whenever possible, as these offer enhanced security compared to traditional magnetic stripe cards. Additionally, consumers are advised to use secure payment methods such as mobile wallets which can provide an additional layer of protection against unauthorized access to personal banking information.
Local authorities continue to investigate the scope of the problem and ascertain how many individuals may have been affected by these fraudulent activities. As of now, it is too early to determine the total impact of the skimming devices found in South Jersey.
This growing trend of credit card skimming underscores the importance of cybersecurity awareness. While consumers can take proactive steps to safeguard their financial information, it often falls to law enforcement and local governments to implement measures that deter these types of crimes in the first place.
Residents are encouraged to report any suspicious behavior they observe at retail locations or if they notice any unusual devices attached to card readers. The police have assured the public that they are taking these incidents seriously and will work tirelessly to solve these crimes and hold those responsible accountable.
In the meantime, the Mt. Ephraim police department has committed to increasing patrols and monitoring convenience stores in the area to better safeguard residents from financial fraud risks. Only through community vigilance and cooperation can these criminal activities be curtailed, they assert.
The incident serves as a reminder to all consumers to remain proactive about protecting their financial information, especially while shopping at local businesses. Awareness and prompt reporting of potential skimming devices can help mitigate risks and ultimately protect the community from financial scams.
