ELKHART COUNTY, Ind. – "Skimming," a fraudulent act, has increased around Elkhart and surrounding areas, according to the Elkhart Police Department.

"Skimmers" are card readers that are placed on ATM's that gather credit and debit card information. That information is stored on the skimmer, which can duplicate and create a clone card.

EPD want to warn residents of these tactics and encourage following these tips to help avoid fraud:

• Check for signs of tampering
• Make sure everything is attached on the machine before inserting card
• Cover the keypad when entering PIN (in case of camera nearby)
• Avoid stand-alone ATM's
• Check bank accounts frequently

If anyone has information on suspects attaching these Skimmers, contact Detective Joy Phillips at 574-295-7076.