The correct thing to do is stop using a debit card at places where there is pin pad. Have the salesperson swipe your card at the register to prevent this. I had this happen to me at the Michael's in Vernon Hills were the thieves replaced the pin pad with theirs. What they did was had a small camera coming up from the bottom to watch you type in your pin number and a device that would record the data of the card when it was swiped.

I heard later that the thieves would ask if the manager was in the store or when they would be off. Then they would come up to a salesperson and say that they were from the credit cards swiper company and they where there to replace the readers because of a problem. After about a month or two later, they would return and say they fixed them and replace it with the original.

Banks can refund the money that was removed from your checking account. I tried calling visa/master card to stop issuing debit cards but all they said was "call the bank since they put they out, with our symbol and their name".

This happened to the Michael's crafts chain of stores. How it works: criminal gangs form networks across the country-obtaining jobs at retail chains such as B&N, Michael's etc. They rig the keypads, collecting and monetizing consumer info. It's organized crime. Someone involved in risk mgmt for this company needs to bone up on policy or be replaced. Moral of the story..don't use your debit card. You have more protection using a credit card not directly linked to your bank accounts. Or pay w/ cash.

Interesting lawsuit. What is the woman's actual damages?

is suing really necessary here? We have become such a litigious country it is crazy. Winstead's bank caught the issue when someone fraudulently tried to use her information. Does she need remuneration for accepting the phone call from her bank and changing her pin number. "Aron Robinson, one of Winstead’s lawyers" How many lawyers does she need??? I bet she isn't paying them, but rather sharing in any windfall they receive in the settlement. Not much better than a whiplash attorney. Do you ever wonder why insurance is so expensive.

A law suit ....Really....Don't our courts have more pressing issues!!!

Just trying to A buck....maybe try to get on disabity also? That's a good gig these days....

Yeah, a lawsuit isn't necessary. The identity thieves, once caught and convicted, should have their hands surgically removed. No jail time. But no hands, either. With enough handless convicts walking around, I bet it would serve as a deterrent and prevent future identity thefts and computer hacking. Does it sound too harsh? Is the punishment too severe for the crime? Would you rather have your tax dollars wasted on three hots and a cot for these low lifes? Why should we all have to pay higher prices at the store to cover losses the business incurs defending lawsuits, higher insurance premiums the stores pay, and the money they spend on security cameras and other anti-theft devices? Make shoplifting, identity theft, and property crime less desirable for criminals and reduce the chance of recividism...off with their hands! Yeah, it sounds barbaric, but can you think of a better way to stop theft?

Seriously? This is embarrassing. You have no damages. A lawsuit? My guess is that these lawyers went looking for someone to start the ball rolling on their class action lawsuit. I wish Ms. Winstead had said no thank you.

I wonder if this woman was affected by the Michael's problem earlier and how she thinks suing companies is the best thing. I believe it is a stupid thing and it might come back to haunt her in the future. Next time write a check, pay cash or just tell the salesperson to swipe at the register. Is she going to pay her lawyers fees if she loses?