Big Y announced Thursday that it discovered card skimming devices at 10 of the supermarket's locations in Massachusetts.
According to Big Y, between Dec. 19 and 21, 2023, an unknown person allegedly placed a device in the following supermarkets:
- Springfield on St. James Avenue
- Chicopee (Express)
- Northampton
- Ware
- South Bridge
- Worcester
- Milford
- Wilbraham (Express)
- Ludlow
Additionally, a card reading device was placed on a single card reader at its Westfield location on East Silver Street between Dec. 19 and Jan. 12.
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Card skimmers are devices placed on ATMs or credit card readers that secretly scan cards, stealing the data contained on them, so the person who put it in place can use the information for fraudulent purchases.
"We are actively investigating the circumstances surrounding this incident, and we notified and are working with law enforcement. We have inspected all of our terminals, and continue to do so," company officials said in a statement. "If we learn that any particular customer’s information was compromised, we will promptly notify them and provide them with additional information so that they can take steps to protect themselves."
Customers were advised to review their bank statements for any fraudulent activity and contact their bank or credit card company immediately if they find anything suspicious.
Customers with any questions or concerns regarding this incident can contact Big Y at 1-800-828-2688 between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m.
Bob DaSilva, a regular shopper at the Milford location, said Saturday that the news had him thinking twice about using a card — in fact, he'd just paid in cash.
"I see the hints of what to look for but it's so deceiving," DaSilva said. "I don't know if I would know what I was looking for."
Credit card skimmers have recently been found at other Massachusetts and New Hampshire, including Market Baskets, Roche Bros., Sudbury Farms and more.
