Seven skimming devices were found on gas pumps at a gas station in Sarasota on Monday, November 6.
"I live close over here. This is the one I use all the time," said customer Fernando Lopez, who says he gets gas here because of lower prices.
The devices were placed 7 of the 8 pumps at Quik (formally known as the Dodge Store), located at 3580 Fruitville Road in Sarasota.
"You'd think the people would check it. I don't know if the ownership has responsibility to check them on a regular basis," said Todd Morgan of Sarasota.
The Sarasota Police Department says it is unknown how long the devices were on the pumps.
The most recent inspection happened April 3, 2017, according to the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Protection.
"Probably go check my card now and call my bank," said Samantha Diaz of Sarasota as she filled up her tank this afternoon.
Police say an inspector with the Department of Agriculture and Consumer Protection was routinely checking the pumps when he located the skimming devices. The owner of the gas station said he did not have any knowledge of the devices on the pumps. He told officers the pumps were installed approximately one year ago.
The owner has not received any complaints from customers in reference to any additional charges on their accounts.
The Sarasota Police Department released the following tips for customers to stay safe at the fuel pump:
- Choose a fuel pump that is close to the entrance of the store
- Use a credit card for the transaction, not a debit card
- Pay inside and use cash
The Sarasota Police Department is encouraging customers who may have recently purchased gas at Quik to pay close attention to bank accounts and look for any unknown transactions, regardless of how small they may be. If anything seems suspicious, customers are encouraged to contact their bank immediately.
Anyone with information on this case, please call the Sarasota Police Department at 941-316-1199 or leave an anonymous tip with Crime Stoppers by calling 941-366-TIPS or online at www.sarasotacrimestoppers.com.
