The U.S. Secret Service reports a surge in skimming devices that steal account details and PINs from bank and government benefits cards. These devices are installed swiftly on card readers at ATMs and retail checkouts.

CBS News joined Secret Service agents in Los Angeles to uncover these devices. A skimmer attached to a terminal collects and transmits card data to scammers. Vince Porter from the Secret Service revealed that a single device can result in $1 million in stolen funds.

These devices are often challenging to detect and remove. In 2025, the Secret Service seized over 400 skimmers, only a small portion of the total in use. A CBS News investigation found 32 federal probes across 15 states, as skimming activities have risen in recent years, costing over $1 billion annually.

Special Agent Michael Peck stated that organized crime groups from Eastern Europe, Asia, and the Americas are behind these scams, often entering through the U.S.-Mexico border. One suspect even crossed from Canada on a Jet Ski.

Skimmers frequently target stores accepting EBT cards, which receive substantial government funds. Lack of tap-and-pay security makes these cards vulnerable. Advertising acceptance of these cards could attract criminals, Porter noted.

It’s a one-stop crime.

Victims find it difficult to regain stolen benefits due to the involvement of multiple agencies. Mary Bowen, a mother of six, reported being unable to pay rent or buy groceries after her benefits were stolen.

Law enforcement operations in California inspected 1,749 devices, seizing 16 skimmers and preventing $16.6 million in fraud. Similar efforts have taken place nationwide.

Skimming occurs frequently in big cities like Los Angeles but also threatens small towns. To reduce risk, avoid swiping cards. While most government benefit cards need swiping, tap-and-pay is recommended for those with the option, according to Peck.