Fuel card skimming has become a growing concern for truck fleets, with scammers installing deceptive devices on truck stop fuel pumps to capture payment card information. Once obtained, fraudsters use the stolen data for unauthorized purchases until fleet managers intervene.
However, the trucking industry has made significant progress in addressing this issue. Industry leaders highlight the shift toward digital payment systems as a major defense against fuel card skimming. According to Spencer Barkoff, president of Relay Payments, the transition to cardless payments has significantly reduced the occurrence of skimming.
Digital solutions eliminate the need for physical cards, removing the primary target for scammers. Teaming up with telematics technology, fleets can now track high-risk areas where skimming has been prevalent.
She also emphasizes covering the keypad when entering security codes. As skimming declines, scammers are turning to more advanced tactics, using AI to deceive individuals into revealing login credentials and multifactor codes. Experts stress the importance of educating employees to recognize and reject these scams. Fraud detection software is also playing a key role in safeguarding against these increasingly sophisticated threats.
A recent lawsuit resulted in a massive settlement after a motorist crashed into a parked tow truck. The case highlights a harsh reality: Tow companies can be held liable for failing to provide adequate emergency warnings.
