Security alert: Credit card skimming devices found in 2 local gas stations

BOSTON — Police say that credit card skimmer devices were found at gas stations in Massachusetts and New Hampshire.

WHAT IS IT?

The skimmer is a small device that can record credit information. It's installed by removing the credit card cover, plugging it in to record the data and replacing the cover. Thieves can then access the data by transmitting it to a computer or returning to the skimmer itself.

Police say they can't tell if the skimmer had actually transmitted any information.

WHERE WERE THEY FOUND?

The skimmers were found in

and

The device in Hingham was found at the

Gulf station on Lincoln Street.

It had been installed inside the credit card slot on pump number 5, which is located closer to the street. Police believe the device was installed around Friday, January 22.

The device in Goffstown was found at the Irving

Circle K Gas station on Mast Road

. The device was found connected to the credit card reader on pump number 6. Police believe the device was placed there on January 23.

WHAT TO DO IF YOU'RE AT RISK

If you believe you may have one of these gas pumps, contact your bank or credit card company right away.

Anyone with information about the skimmer in Hingham is urged to contact police at (781) 749-1212.

If you have information about the skimmer in Goffstown, contact police at (603) 497-4858.

Cox Media Group