If you thought paying at self-checkout was as easy as scanning and swiping, think again. Authorities are warning about a new wave of credit card skimming scams that are becoming increasingly sophisticated. These scams, which have already targeted self-checkouts at major retailers like Walmart and Kroger, are now hitting gas stations-proving that no point-of-sale system is safe from these crafty criminals. The latest case involves a Sheetz self-checkout in Beavercreek, Ohio, where a skimmer was discovered discreetly installed on a payment terminal. Card skimmers are tiny devices that fit over legitimate card readers, capturing sensitive credit and debit card information, including numbers and PINs. Once thieves have this data, they can create counterfeit cards or make unauthorized purchases, leaving unsuspecting consumers to deal with the aftermath. Police in Beavercreek have released images of two suspects believed to have installed the skimming device and are asking for public assistance to identify them. The situation has prompted local residents, like frequent Sheetz customer Jason Elting, to rethink their payment habits. "I try to be safe with my credit card anyway," Elting told WHIOTV, adding that he avoids using debit cards and vigilantly monitors his account for fraudulent charges. But even seasoned shoppers like Elting are growing increasingly cautious. [caption id="attachment_4495" align="aligncenter" width="300"] Beavercreek Police have posted a photo of the two men who allegedly placed the device.[/caption] This isn't an isolated incident. Earlier this year, skimming devices were found at a Walmart in Connecticut-18 days after installation-and at a Kroger grocery store in Atlanta, Georgia. In both cases, criminals managed to blend the skimmers so well with the existing machines that they went unnoticed for weeks, compromising countless customer accounts. So, how can you protect yourself from these scams? Local officials and cybersecurity experts recommend several preventative measures. Kraig Hagler, a county auditor, suggests using digital payment methods like Apple Pay, which generates unique transaction codes that make it nearly impossible for skimmers to capture usable information. For those without digital wallets, using a credit card is safer than a debit card because it doesn't give direct access to your cash. Dr. Vahid Behzadan, a computer science professor at the University of New Haven, advises shoppers to stay vigilant by checking for anomalies around card readers. He also recommends setting up transaction notifications on your smartphone to catch unauthorized charges quickly. The bottom line? Whether you're fueling up or checking out, be alert. A few extra seconds of scrutiny could save you from weeks-or even months-of financial headaches.