Breaking News: Card Skimming Suspected at Van Nuys Amstar Gas Station

Warning: Potential Card Skimming at Van Nuys Am Star Gas Station
Consumers are being warned about potential card skimming at the Van Nuys Am Star Gas Station, located at 13650 Vanowen St, Van Nuys, CA 91405. A customer who used their card at the pump on September 6, 2024, discovered unauthorized charges on their account, raising concerns that the station's card readers may be compromised.

After paying for gas, the customer received an alert from their bank regarding several suspicious transactions. Alongside the legitimate fuel charge, there was an unauthorized $100 charge from the gas station. Additionally, on September 7, 2024, an attempt was made to withdraw $100 from a 7-Eleven store across the street from the gas station.

"I know people think the Van Nuys Am Star gas station is cheap, however, your banking financial information is at risk," said Esteban Steven Escobar, a local resident. He added, "Yikes, I would not go back there until the owners make a public announcement that they have taken care of the card skimming on their gas pumps."

These incidents suggest that card skimming devices, which capture card information during transactions, may have been installed at the gas pumps, putting customers' financial data at risk.
"I strongly advise everyone to avoid Van Nuys Am Star until the owners take responsibility and investigate this situation. We need a guarantee that our financial information is safe before trusting this gas station again," Escobar concluded.

What You Should Do:

• Check Your Bank Statements: If you've purchased gas at Van Nuys Am Star recently, review your account for any suspicious or unauthorized charges.
• Avoid Using Cards at This Station: Refrain from paying with credit or debit cards at Van Nuys Am Star until the issue is resolved.
• Dispute Unauthorized Charges: Contact your bank or credit card provider to dispute any fraudulent charges.
• Report to Local Authorities: Consumers can report any fraudulent activity to the Los Angeles Police Department Van Nuys Station at (818) 374-9500.

Consumer Safety Tips:

• Use Credit Over Debit: Credit cards generally offer better fraud protection compared to debit cards.
• Inspect Card Readers: Be cautious of card readers that appear damaged or tampered with.
• Consider Mobile Payments: Opt for contactless or mobile payment options whenever possible to minimize the risk of skimming.

Consumers are also encouraged to call Van Nuys Am Star directly at (818) 510-0012 and demand that they address this issue by securing their card readers and ensuring customer protection.