Deputies warning customers to look out for ATM skimmers

HOUSTON (KTRK) -- Another set of skimming devices has been found on cash machines throughout Houston, but this time the suspects are in custody.

Laura Espinoza says she tries to be cautious whenever she uses a Houston ATM because of skimmers.

"I do think about that constantly when I go because I have heard about it through emails and people just talking about it," said Espinoza.

Authorities say we all need to look for the devices after 10 Capital One drive up ATM's were found to have skimmers.

According to a federal criminal complaint, Bernard Nwachan Akwar, 27, and Tokunbo Patrick Aiyewa, 27, are charged with bank fraud after installing skimming devices at drive up ATM's across the area since January.

Sergeant David Schultz with the Fort Bend County Sheriff's Department says his deputies seized a skimmer back in Februaryy.

"There was actually a plate that was actually customally fit over the actual card slot," said Schultz.

Court records state a small camera was also attached to the ATM to record PIN numbers. The set up was similar to those the suspects used and is now part of a larger federal investigation. The federal case alleges 375 cards were compromised.

"These are generally sophisticated," said Schultz. "Your average consumer would not notice it."

Court records say the suspects were caught on security camera. Investigators say many other skimmers go undetected.

So what can you do? Authorities say grab the card reader and give it a firm tug. If something comes off, or things do not look right, do not use the ATM.

Capital One issued the following statement regarding our ATM skimmer story: