Contactless payments are convenient, but scammers are using ghost tapping to steal from unsuspecting consumers. Find out how this tap-to-pay fraud works and how to stay safe.
Tapping your card or phone to pay has become second nature for many of us.
It’s quick, easy, and you don’t even have to hand your card to anyone. But scammers are finding ways to take advantage of this payment convenience. One growing threat is called ghost tapping, where criminals use wireless devices to steal money without touching your card.
What you'll learn:
How scammers exploit tap-to-pay cards and mobile wallets using NFC technology.
Learn red flags and suspicious behaviors to watch for in public and crowded spaces.
Safety tips for contactless payments and steps to take if you experience fraud.
What is ghost tapping?
Ghost tapping is a scam that targets tap-to-pay cards and mobile wallets. Tap-to-pay works through Near Field Communication (NFC), which allows devices to exchange data at very close range. While NFC is generally safe, scammers can exploit it in crowded or distracted situations. You can learn more about NFCs and how to use them safely in BBB Tip: What to know if you’re using NFCs.
Unlike previous debit and credit card scams, which required physical contact with the card, ghost tapping eliminates this need. There are occasions where the scammers will attempt to trick unsuspecting individuals in public places. For example, they might try:
Getting close in public spaces. Someone might bump into you while secretly charging your tap-enabled card or mobile wallet.
Pretending to be a vendor. At events, flea markets, or festivals, fraudsters might set up fake stands and ask for tap payments.
Charity scams. They might request a small donation but actually charge your card for a much larger amount.
Rushing the process. Scammers count on you tapping without checking the business name or transaction amount.
In some cases, fraudsters make small withdrawals to avoid triggering fraud detection systems, which means victims may not notice the theft right away.
BBB has received several reports of this scam. One person reported this experience to BBB Scam Tracker, “An individual is going door to door in [location redacted] claiming to be selling chocolate on behalf of [redacted] to support special needs students. He says that he can only accept tap-to-pay to get people to pay with a card. He then charges large amounts to the card without the cardholder being able to see the amount. He got my mother for $537... Another victim for $1100... He changes neighborhoods frequently to avoid getting caught.”
What are the warning signs and red flags of ghost tapping?
- Bank alerts about small or unusual "test" charges.
- A request to tap without showing you the total or offering a receipt.
- Suspicious charges after you've been in crowded areas like festivals, markets, or transit stations.
How to protect yourself from a tap-to-pay scam?
Use RFID protection. An RFID-blocking wallet or sleeve can help stop wireless skimming.
Always confirm payment details. Before tapping your card or phone, check the merchant’s name and amount on the terminal screen.
Set up transaction alerts. Many banks allow real-time notifications for every charge.
Keep an eye on your accounts. Daily checks help you spot fraud faster.
Limit tap-to-pay use in high-risk areas. When in doubt, consider swiping or inserting your card instead.
What to do if you’re a victim of a tap-to-pay scam:
For more information
See the BBB Wise Giving Alliance for tips on making donations.