Credit Card Reader Update Scam Alert

Posted 08-10-21.

The Sevierville Police Department is warning businesses of a possible scam involving updates to credit card readers.

 

Over the past week, SPD has received several reports of a man purporting to work for American Express who tells business employees he needs to update their credit card readers. Providing access to the card reader could result in a breach of customer information. SPD does not believe that an actual American Express representative is legitimately performing this service in our area at this time. Some witnesses have said the man was wearing a blue shirt with the American Express name/logo.

Anyone who is or has been approached by this person should contact SPD Detective Krista Weaver (865-868-1751). SPD recommends that businesses not allow access to credit card readers or provide any sensitive information to unknown persons before thoroughly verifying the identity of the person, including photo identification, credentials and contacting the person’s company using a previously known contact number.