(NBC 26) -- As many consumers shift to more online shopping during the Covid-19 pandemic, scammers are putting a new twist on an old scam to cheat you out of money.
According to the Better Business Bureau for years scammers have used a small device on ATM's, gas pumps or credit card machines to collect your credit card information, known as "skimming."
Now a new form of this technology called "e-skimming" steals your credit card data when you are shopping online.
Cyber-criminals are hacking into a business's online server and installing malware that can harvest your personal information at check-out.
Once you type in your credit card information and your billing address the e-skimmer captures your information leaving you vulnerable to credit card fraud.
According to the BBB you won't be aware your information was stolen until the company discovers the breach and alerts its customers.
The BBB says make sure you're protected while shopping online by keeping a close yes on your bank and credit card statements to confirm all charges.
Make an online purchase with a credit card instead of your debit card. Experts say it is much easier to dispute charges made with your credit card.
Consider using a virtual credit card. They provide a unique credit card number to use when shopping online that links to your normal account.
For more information check out the Better Business Bureau's website
