top of page

How to Protect Your POS Terminal and Prevent Fraud in Your Business

  • Universum Solution
  • Sep 30
  • 2 min read
ree

Many small businesses in the United States are currently at risk due to a growing issue: credit card skimming. Skimmers are hidden devices installed on POS terminals or ATMs to steal customers’ debit or credit card information, which criminals later use for identity theft, unauthorized purchases, or illegal cash withdrawals.


💡 What is a skimmer and how does it work?


  • External skimmers: Placed over the card swipe slot on magnetic stripe readers.

  • Internal skimmers: Installed inside the payment terminal.

  • Wireless skimmers: Capture and transmit stolen data via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi.

ree

🎯How to protect your business from credit card skimming?


This is no joke, and it could happen to your store. Keep the following recommendations in mind to make sure your business is more secure:


  1. Inspect your POS terminals regularly: Look for loose parts, unusual slots, or strange attachments.

  2. Install surveillance cameras: Aim them directly at checkout stations to discourage tampering.

  3. Train your staff on payment fraud prevention: Teach employees how to identify suspicious changes in payment devices. Never allow outsiders to access your terminals.

  4. Educate your customers: Remind them to shield the keypad when entering their PIN.

  5. Use extra caution with EBT card payments: EBT data can also be copied and misused to drain funds.


How to know if your POS terminal has been tampered with


Before using your payment terminal, check for these warning signs:• A cover that looks loose, bulky, or out of place.• Suspicious materials such as tape, glue, or scratch marks.• A keypad that feels thicker or different from normal.• Anything unusual near the screen, like a possible hidden camera.


ree

⚠️ Security Alert


If someone visits your business claiming to be from a government agency or payment network, always request official identification before sharing any information. When in doubt, contact the institution directly — or reach out to UNIVERSUM to verify if the visit is legitimate.


💡UNIVERSUM is here to protect your business.


If you suspect your POS terminal has been compromised, stop using it immediately and call us at 1-888-507-6614.


Fraud prevention starts with awareness.


Secure your business with Universum today!


Follow us for quick tips to keep your business safe and more! Facebook and Instagram

LinkedIn: Universum


Comments

bottom of page