HPD investigating 'card skimmers' inserted at local gas station

HATTIESBURG, Miss. - The Hattiesburg Police Department (HPD) is investigating card skimmers placed inside multiple gas pumps at the Exxon on Highway 98.

Lieutenant (Lt.) Jon Traxler with HPD said a citizen notified police Monday afternoon, "They called us after they witness some type of device being installed" said Lt. Traxler.

“We did find some devices hooked up at a few of the gas pumps" Lt. Traxler added.

This is not the first incident inside city limits and police are warning residents to be extremely mindful when pumping gas.

Lt. Traxler said, “We have had some other incidents throughout the pass few months, one or two here, nothing specific, no specific area or anything."

Police said if you are a victim of card skimming in the Hattiesburg area, to notify local authorities to help with their investigation.

The following is a few tips to protect your information:

• Pay with credit card

• Pay with cash

• Go inside to pay for gas