UPDATE: The Mobile County Sheriff’s Office has issued an urgent alert to shoppers about a disturbing rise in credit card skimmers found at local retailers. Just reported today, multiple complaints indicate that skimming devices have been detected on credit and debit card machines at several Family Dollar and Dollar Tree locations, prompting immediate action from authorities.
Shoppers are urged to remain vigilant, particularly as the holiday season approaches. These skimmers are designed to illegally capture payment information and PIN numbers, leading to unauthorized transactions that can severely impact consumers. The Sheriff’s Office is actively investigating these incidents and collaborating with federal law enforcement to identify the suspects behind these crimes.
Details: Since December 19, 2025, reports of skimming devices have emerged from six Family Dollar stores and one Dollar Tree in Mobile County. Authorities are advising all consumers to thoroughly inspect card readers for any signs of tampering. If anything appears out of the ordinary, shoppers should refrain from using the machine and report the issue immediately.
In a statement, the Mobile County Sheriff’s Office emphasized the importance of awareness during this busy shopping season. “We are asking the public to be cautious and report any suspicious activity. These devices can steal sensitive financial information without a person’s consent,” the Sheriff’s Office warned.
The rise in skimming incidents is not isolated to Mobile County. Similar occurrences have been reported in other jurisdictions, raising concerns about the widespread nature of this crime. The Sheriff’s Office encourages anyone who finds a skimmer to contact them at 251-574-8633 or reach out to local law enforcement.
As we enter the holiday shopping rush, the potential for these fraudulent activities intensifies. Consumers need to be proactive in safeguarding their financial information. The Mobile County Sheriff’s Office continues to monitor the situation closely and will provide updates as new information becomes available.
Stay tuned for further developments and prioritize your financial security while shopping this season.
