Dangers of skimming theft

You could have your credit card information stolen and not even know it. It's a process called skimming in which thieves use a device that's attached to gas station pumps or ATMs. Then when you swipe your card it records your information.

This can also occur in restaurants or other businesses. Over the last year, there were up to two dozen reports in Mesa County but officials think the number of victims is much higher than that.

There are steps you can take to protect yourself.

“The best thing that people can do is watch where their credit card is being used. Walk up to the counter and watch them run it through the machine and give it back to you” said Heather Benjamin of the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office.

When it comes to gas stations and ATMs, it's almost impossible for customers to know.  That's why it's best to limit the amount of credit cards used and keep a close eye on all charges.

The sheriff's office also urges people to contact them and make a report if they think they've become a victim.