We all know that in today’s digital age, the convenience of wireless technology comes with its own set of risks. Among these are handheld skimmers, insidious devices designed to stealthily steal information from unsuspecting victims, “A skimmer being brought into my building a few times a week!”
Of course, this is only my suspicion, and I can’t prove that. But I can just about always tell when a certain party is around based on the behavior of my Bluetooth devices. Fortunately, there are some apps and other devices made for detecting those who use these things. So… I guess when I get annoyed enough, “I’ll get hold of one and find out for sure!”
It will probably cost me a few bucks. But it just might be well worth it. And… If all else fails, “I do have friends I can trust in law enforcement who might be able to help determine a skimmer’s existence or lack thereof.”
All I know is, something is definitely scanning my devices day and night when a certain party is around. It could be something or nothing. “Hard to say for sure just yet.”
Handheld skimmers operate by exploiting vulnerabilities in Bluetooth technology. When a Bluetooth-enabled device, like a smartphone or laptop, is in discoverable mode, skimmers can potentially pair with it without the owner’s knowledge. Once paired, these devices can intercept sensitive data such as credit card details, passwords, and personal information. The process typically involves three stages:
- Discovery: The skimmer scans for available Bluetooth devices within range.
- Pairing: It attempts to connect using default or commonly used pins.
- Data Theft: Upon successful pairing, the skimmer can access the device’s data.
“These things can be homemade!” With the proliferation of DIY tutorials and the availability of components, creating a homemade skimmer has become alarmingly straightforward for anyone with an understanding of the software and hardware required. These homemade devices may not be as polished as commercial versions but can be just as effective. They often consist of a Bluetooth module, a microcontroller, and a power source, all of which are easily obtainable.
Handheld skimmers are designed to be inconspicuous, but there are tell-tale signs:
- Unusual Devices: If your Bluetooth device detects an unknown device with a nonsensical name, it could be a skimmer. But at this point in time, I would be suspicious of even devices that identify as other computers or smart phones, “Personally having already found an innocent looking Bluetooth connection to one of my Echo Dots that shouldn’t have been there.”
- Odd Shapes: Skimmers may have an irregular shape or extra attachments that seem out of place. As an amateur radio operator myself I can tell you that some Homemade electronics sometimes have a bit of a Crude appearance.
- Portability: These devices are small and easily concealed, so be wary of any unusual gadgets or tools that individuals carry with them.
They say that if you suspect that someone is using a skimmer in your building or anywhere else for that matter:
- Do Not Engage: Avoid confronting the individual directly. They may be dangerous or part of a larger criminal network.
- Gather Evidence: If safe to do so, document any suspicious behavior or devices without alerting the suspect.
- Notify Security: Inform your building’s security personnel or management about your suspicions.
- Contact Authorities: Report the incident to law enforcement for further investigation.
- Protect Your Devices: Ensure that your Bluetooth settings are secure, update your devices, and change passwords regularly.
Situational awareness is key to so many things these days, it kind of gets to be a bit overwhelming at times. But, by understanding how technology works in general: As a blind person who uses tech as a part of his everyday life, I know firsthand how you can not only make your gadgets work for you in an efficient manner; you can help safeguard everyone around you.
I know I don’t want to get ripped off anymore than the next person. So… I’m doing what I need to do to safeguard my digital assets, which has cost me around $200.00 thus far. But… “That’s just the way it goes.”