WorldAugust 21, 2026
skimmer
SKIM-er
Definition
A fraudulent electronic device attached to a legitimate card reader, such as an ATM, designed to illegally capture and store credit or debit card information.
Etymology
Derived from the verb 'skim,' which originally meant to remove floating matter from the surface of a liquid. It evolved to metaphorically describe the act of secretly 'skimming' or stealing data from cards.
In the news
The article uses the term to describe an illegal device placed on an ATM to steal customer financial data. It is a critical warning to local residents to monitor their accounts for potential theft.
Law enforcement searching for suspect after card skimmer found at ATM in Amherst County
Read the full article ↗WSLS