A U.S. Secret Service operation targeting illegal card skimmers uncovered 13 skimming devices in Hialeah and Homestead, authorities said.
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“Operation Heat Check” involved nearly 3,000 inspections of point-of-sale terminals, gas pumps and ATMs at 378 businesses, authorities said.
Working with Hialeah and Homestead Police, 13 illegal skimming devices were removed, preventing an estimated $13.5 million in fraud losses, authorities said.
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The effort is part of an ongoing nationwide initiative to combat payment card skimming, EBT fraud and other forms of financial crime.
“Operation HEAT CHECK demonstrates that, alongside our local partners, the U.S. Secret Service is committed to identifying and pursuing those who prey on South Florida communities,” said Special Agent in Charge Michael Townsend of the U.S. Secret Service Miami Field Office. “Our approach is proactive. Rather than waiting for consumers to become victims, we are working with businesses to help them recognize and report skimming devices before more people are impacted.”
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