 The line on the FIT card shows the proper depth of insertion. When the other end of the card is inserted into the terminal, the black line should still be visible. |  On the left: An original card reader, where the black line of the FIT card aligns with the edge of the reader. On the right, the FIT card exposes a tampered machine. |
 Signs of tampering include uneven plastic edges, splitting seams, worn paint, and color inconsistency.
|  A chip reading slot will not use a magnetic strip reader. If there is a noticeably present abnormality where the magnetic stripe aligns in the slot, it is a sign that there is a foreign magnetic strip reader in the machine and it has been tampered with. |
The Regina Police Service is reminding members of the public – and merchants – to take a close look at Pin Pads before using them to ensure they haven’t been modified to steal credit card or bank card data.
The Regina Police Service does not currently have any reports of anyone victimized in this manner, but on May 26th, the Regina Integrated Commercial Crime Unit was advised of a compromised Pin Pad at a local restaurant. Similar incidents have been reported in other western Canadian cities.
Typically the things a client – and business owner/merchant – should look for include:
1) The bank card or credit card slides further into the machine than usual. Business owners can obtain a “fit card” which shows the proper depth of the slot. If the card goes in too far, there may be a false cover on the terminal;
2) The casing for the terminal has paint worn off, or gaps between the housing the and card slot;
3) A visible Mag Strip reader just inside the card slot. The term “Mag Strip” refers to the magnetic strip on your bank or credit card which holds your account information. Original card slots should not have Mag Strip readers in them.
Photos illustrating these modifications and the warning signs are available at www.reginapolice.ca .
Merchants should be vigilant in protecting their Pin Pad terminals. Inspect them frequently for any signs of tampering and, if possible remove them from the counter when not in use or secure them in place. Suspects typically steal a Pin Pad as the last customer before closing, replacing it with a modified Pin Pad first thing in the morning. Instruct employees to be aware that one suspect may create a distraction while another suspect makes the switch. Anyone who believes a Pin Pad has been tampered should contact the Regina Police Service at 306-777-6500.
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