What is a card skimmer?

A card skimmer is specifically identified as a physical device that captures card information illegitimately. These devices are often attached to ATMs, point-of-sale terminals, or gas station pumps, without the knowledge of the consumers using them. When a card is swiped or inserted into a skimmer-equipped terminal, the device reads and records the card's magnetic strip data, which can include the card number, expiration date, and cardholder’s name. This stolen data can then be used for fraudulent transactions or sold on the black market.

The other options describe concepts that are not related to card skimming activities. Enhancing transaction speed, verifying cardholder identity, and storing payment information are all legitimate functions, but they do not involve the illicit capture of credit or debit card data. This distinction is crucial to understanding the threat posed by skimmers in the context of payment card fraud and security.