You can never be too careful when it comes to protecting your identity. This includes using your debit or credit card to pay for gas or get cash from an ATM.

Identity thieves are attaching card skimmers to ATMs and gas pumps to obtain the card's information. Skimmers are placed over the area of the machine where you insert your card, or inside the card slot. Credit Card skimmers could be almost anywhere.

Here are some tips to make sure you’re not getting scammed:

• Always tug the card insert area before you pay, and examine it to verify there's nothing inserted.
• You should also be on the lookout for small surveillance cameras pointing at the keypad.
• Always cover the keypad with your hand as you type your zip code and PIN, even if you don't see a camera.

If the machine you're using seems suspicious—with loose pieces or a part that looks too big—find a new one and let the appropriate person know right away.