The Latest Scams Circulating the Consumer World. Be warned. Be informed.
February 2007
Camera Phones & Credit Cards
A camera is now a standard feature on wireless phones. A camera phone is a small, inconspicuous tool that can easily capture pictures of important information like your credit card. Many people multi-task while they are standing in line or paying for their items at the register, so it easy to ignore what the person behind you or across from you is doing with their cell phone. However, you might want to start paying closer attention. Read on to find out why.
A man went into a pizza parlor to pick up an order that he called in ahead of time. He paid by using his Visa Check Card which, of course, is linked directly to his checking account.
The young woman behind the counter took his card, swiped it, then laid it on the counter as she waited for the approval, which is pretty standard procedure. While she waited, she picked up her cell phone and started dialing.
The customer noticed the phone because he owned the same model. At that point, nothing seemed out of the ordinary. Then he heard a click that sounded like his phone sounds when it takes a picture. The pizza parlor employee then gave the customer back his card but kept the phone in her hand as if she was still pressing buttons. Then it dawned on the man that the only thing there was to take a picture of on the counter was his credit card.
The employee set her phone on the counter, leaving it open. About five seconds later, the man heard the chime that tells you that the picture has been saved.
The man didn’t know how to confront the employee, so he just left the store and immediately cancelled his credit card. The employee played off the scam well, and perhaps if the victim didn’t have the same kind of phone, he might not have noticed or ever have known what happened.
Play It Safe
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Be aware of your surroundings at all times. |
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Notice who is standing near you and what they are doing when you use your card. |
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Be aware of phones because many have a camera phone these days. |
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