FDIC Warns of Hidden ATM Skimmers and Tap-to-Pay Card Fraud in 2025
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) has issued a new consumer advisory warning Americans about a sharp increase in ATM skimmers and tap-to-pay card fraud in 2025. These attacks are becoming more sophisticated as criminals deploy ultra-thin skimmers, deep-insert devices, and wireless “overlays” that steal card information without being detected.
The FDIC notes that fraud involving debit and credit card data has risen significantly in the past 18 months, aligning with national trends tracked by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Consumer Finance Protection Bureau (CFPB).
This announcement follows CFRB’s major education release,
“Credit & Debit Card Fraud in 2025–2026: How Criminals Steal Your Card Data & How to Protect Yourself.”
🏧 ATM Skimming Devices Are Smaller and Harder to Detect Than Ever
In its 2025 bulletin, the FDIC explains that skimmers are evolving into nearly invisible card-reading tools.
New devices include:
- Deep-insert skimmers hidden inside the card slot
- Ultra-thin overlay skimmers placed over the keypad
- Bluetooth-enabled skimmers transmitting stolen data wirelessly
- Internal “shimmer” chips placed between your card and the ATM’s reader
The FDIC warns that many modern skimmers:
- Cannot be seen by consumers
- Do not change the appearance of the ATM
- Can collect PIN codes via tiny hidden cameras or keypad overlays
According to the FDIC:
“A single skimmer placed on a busy ATM can capture hundreds of card numbers in a single weekend.”
📈 Card Fraud Losses Rising Nationwide
Based on data collected from banks participating in the FDIC Fraud Monitoring Consortium:
- ATM skimming attacks are up nearly 280% since 2022
- Shimming attacks targeting chip cards increased more than 400%
- Tap-to-pay fraud complaints rose over 190%
- Wireless skimming attempts now represent a major emerging threat
The FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) confirms similar trends.
📲 Tap-to-Pay Systems Are the New Frontier for Criminals
While tap-to-pay (NFC) transactions are generally secure, the FDIC warns that criminals are now targeting:
✔ Wireless point-of-sale skimmers
Hidden devices attached over contactless terminals.
✔ NFC signal amplifiers
Tools that boost stolen card signals from nearby consumers.
✔ Fake “contactless readers”
Portable devices criminals hold near victims in stores, airports, or events.
✔ Rogue card readers
Illegitimate terminals that skim encrypted card data from close range.
These devices can capture partial card data, which criminals use to test small fraudulent transactions or clone digital wallets.
⛽ Gas Pumps Remain One of the Highest-Risk Locations
According to the DOJ, organized crime groups continue to target gas pumps because:
- Pump doors are often unsecured
- Criminals can access internal wiring
- Many pumps lack modern tamper sensors
- Busy stations allow skimmers to operate undetected for days
In February 2025, a DOJ press release noted:
“Gas pump skimming remains one of the most profitable fraud methods for organized criminal networks operating in multi-state territories.”
🔍 FDIC: Warning Signs Consumers Should Watch For
The FDIC advises consumers to look for:
- Loose or misaligned card readers
- Keypads that feel raised or thicker than normal
- Sticky residue around the reader
- Small holes or unusual seams (possible camera placement)
- Terminals with no visible security seal
- ATMs located in dimly lit or low-traffic areas
For tap-to-pay security:
- Avoid terminals with bulky covers or added plastic
- Be cautious at unattended kiosks or gas pumps
- Use digital wallets with biometric authentication
- Check phone notifications for attempted unauthorized charges
🔐 Strategies to Protect Yourself
The FDIC, FBI, and CFPB recommend:
✔ Cover the keypad when entering your PIN
Prevents hidden cameras from recording it.
✔ Use ATMs in bank lobbies or high-visibility locations
These are rarely compromised.
✔ Wiggle the card reader
If it moves — even slightly — do NOT use the machine.
✔ Monitor your account daily
Enable instant alerts for all debit and credit transactions.
✔ Use digital wallets when possible
Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay encrypt your card data.
✔ Enable tap-to-pay notifications
You’ll be alerted the moment a transaction is attempted.
✔ Report suspicious activity immediately
To your bank, the FDIC, and IC3.gov.
🛡 CFRB: 2025–2026 Will Be a Critical Era for Card Security
CFRB analysts agree with the FDIC that card fraud will continue to rise due to:
- More wireless skimming technology
- The ease of hidden shimmers
- AI tools that instantly test stolen card data
- Rapid resale markets on the dark web
- Increased travel and tap-to-pay usage
In CFRB’s education guide, readers learn how modern criminals:
- Clone chip cards
- Steal card data without physical contact
- Attach tiny devices inside ATMs
- Build fraud attacks using stolen personal information
📌 Final Takeaway
The FDIC warns that ATM skimmers and tap-to-pay card fraud may be at their highest levels ever recorded in 2025.
Consumers must adopt stronger security habits and monitor their accounts closely.
For step-by-step safety strategies, see:
Credit & Debit Card Fraud in 2025–2026: How Criminals Steal Your Card Data & How to Protect Yourself.