Valparaiso, IN – Two Valparaiso businesses discovered card skimming devices installed on their point-of-sale machines Friday, March 22, prompting a local and federal investigation.
According to the Valparaiso Police Department, officers identified both the suspect and their vehicle following an intensive weekend investigation. Authorities have not yet released the suspect’s name, citing pending formal charges.
Police believe the skimming devices may be part of a broader scheme beyond the Valparaiso area. Investigators are coordinating with federal agencies as the scope of the fraudulent activity expands.
Local business owners played a critical role in the case by quickly identifying the suspicious devices and notifying authorities. Police credited this swift response with helping to move the investigation forward.
The department is urging all area businesses to inspect their credit card terminals regularly. If a device appears altered or tampered with, business owners are advised to contact law enforcement immediately to file a report.
Skimming devices are used to illegally capture credit card data during transactions, often leading to identity theft or unauthorized purchases. Officials stressed the importance of vigilance, especially in high-traffic retail locations, to reduce the risk of fraud.
No injuries or direct confrontations were reported during the incidents.
