tl;dr
The article warns of a new scam called *ghost tapping*, where thieves use wireless devices to steal funds from RFID-enabled debit and credit cards in crowded areas. The BBB highlights that this method is stealthier than traditional skimming, allowing unauthorized transactions from a distance. Victim...
**"Ghost Tapping" Scam Targets Debit and Credit Cards—Here’s How to Protect Yourself**
Imagine this: You’re at a busy festival, juggling a drink, a ticket, and your phone. Unbeknownst to you, a thief nearby is using a handheld device to siphon money from your card—without ever touching it. This is the terrifying reality of a new scam called *ghost tapping*, warned about by the Better Business Bureau (BBB).
The BBB reports that criminals are now exploiting the convenience of contactless payment systems, using wireless devices to steal funds from debit and credit cards from as far as a few feet away. Unlike older scams that required physical swiping or skimming, *ghost tapping* is stealthier, faster, and harder to detect.
**How It Works**
Scammers equip themselves with portable payment readers that can intercept data from RFID-enabled cards. When victims are in crowded spaces—think transit hubs, concerts, or busy streets—the devices “tap” into the card’s information, allowing thieves to make unauthorized transactions. The BBB warns that debit cards are particularly risky, as criminals can drain accounts swiftly or rack up credit card charges.
Steve Bernas, president and CEO of the BBB, emphasizes the urgency: “This isn’t a minor inconvenience. It’s a direct hit to your wallet.” Victims often first notice something’s wrong through small “test” charges or sudden alerts from their bank.
**What You Can Do**
The BBB urges cardholders to take proactive steps to safeguard their finances:
- **Use RFID-blocking sleeves or wallets** to prevent unauthorized scans.
- **Enable real-time transaction alerts** through your bank’s app to catch suspicious activity immediately.
- **Limit contactless payments** in high-risk areas, opting for PINs or cash instead.
- **Regularly monitor accounts** for unusual activity.
If you suspect you’ve fallen victim, act fast: File a complaint with the BBB and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), report unauthorized charges to your bank, and consider freezing or canceling the affected card.
**Stay Vigilant in a Digital World**
As technology evolves, so do scams. While tap-to-pay convenience is a modern marvel, it’s also a new frontier for fraud. By staying informed and adopting simple precautions, consumers can protect themselves from becoming the next target. After all, in the world of finance, vigilance is the best defense.
*Have you ever noticed strange charges on your card? Share your experience—and tips for staying safe—in the comments below.*