Fake Credit Card Scanner
Florence Police are investigating after a credit card skimmer was discovered at the 7-Eleven store on October 13th. An officer responded after employees reported finding the device on the store’s card reader, which appeared nearly identical to the actual payment terminal. Police say the skimmer had been placed by sliding it over the existing reader, making it difficult to detect. These devices can steal card data, including numbers, expiration dates, and security codes — information that can then be used to make unauthorized purchases or create fake cards. No hidden camera was found with this skimmer. Store employees believe the device was not present at 3 p.m. that day but was discovered and removed by 9 p.m. Police are reviewing surveillance video to determine when it was installed. Customers who used their credit or debit cards at 7-Eleven between those hours are urged to monitor their accounts and notify their financial institutions of possible fraud. Florence Police remind residents that “tap-to-pay” is the most secure method, followed by chip use, while swiping is most vulnerable. Anyone who suspects unauthorized charges should contact Florence Police at 541-997-3515.
Gas Prices
Gas prices are continuing to fall across Oregon and the nation. Crude oil prices have dropped below $60 a barrel, and with lower demand and the switch to winter-blend fuel, prices are expected to keep declining. The national average for regular is down five cents this week to $3.08 a gallon. Oregon’s average also dropped five cents to $4.09, while Florence drivers are paying around $3.99. AAA Oregon’s Marie Dodds says prices are “falling like autumn leaves,” and despite an early-October refinery fire in Southern California, pump prices on the West Coast have remained stable.
McKenzie Pass Closes
Weekend snowfall over the Cascades has prompted the closure of the west side of McKenzie Pass, Oregon Highway 242. Crews closed gates Tuesday morning near the junction with Highway 126 and at the summit by Dee Wright Observatory. The east side is expected to remain open a bit longer, with November 6th as the latest possible closing date. McKenzie Pass is a seasonal scenic route that’s not maintained in winter, and travelers who go beyond closure gates could face hazards and no cell coverage. The pass typically reopens each spring, depending on snow and road conditions. Travelers should check tripcheck.com before traveling.
ODOT Seasonal Jobs
Snow on Oregon highways last weekend is a reminder that winter is coming — and ODOT is hiring seasonal workers to prepare. After new funding from the Oregon Legislature in September, ODOT began recalling winter staff and posting dozens of maintenance jobs across the state. Many of those applications close this week. Earlier this year, the agency warned of major service cuts due to a funding crisis, but with the new support, ODOT says crews are ready to provide full winter maintenance. Positions are still open statewide to help keep Oregon’s roads safe this winter.