Hackers Targeting Gas, Charging Stations, More

The United States is leading the pack as the most hacked nation in the world.

A consumer alert is necessary for shoppers during this busy holiday season. Hackers are getting more sophisticated and aren’t just using skimmers at the gas pumps. They are able to hack into the merchant’s terminal and access your personal information from the back end by using malware/malicious software.

Go inside and pay at gas stations when possible, since they don’t use chip technology – a much safer way to use plastic. The magnetic strip is static information that hackers can easily access. Avoid using debit cards since losses are not recouped as they are with credit cards.

Avoid using cellphone charging stations are very dangerous. It is preferable to have a backup battery. Using Wifi hot spots at hotels and airports is just as bad. This is like an open door for a hacker to walk right through and gain access to your personal information and money.

The travel industry is the second most attacked sector, jumping from 10th to second place in 2018. Credit card fraud cost consumers $24 billion last year.

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