Money Vanishes from Accounts Just by Bringing a Phone Near! New Tap-to-Pay Fraud Targeting Travelers, Learn How to Protect Yourself

Tap-To-Pay Fraud: If you are a travel enthusiast and frequently use Tap-to-Pay with your debit or credit card while traveling, this information is crucial for you.

Tap-To-Pay Fraud: If you are a travel enthusiast and frequently use Tap-to-Pay with your debit or credit card while traveling, this information is crucial for you. In recent months, a new digital payment fraud has emerged, known as 'Ghost Tapping'. This scam is rapidly spreading, especially at tourist spots, where fraudsters take advantage of the crowds to withdraw money from people's accounts without their knowledge.

What is the 'Ghost Tapping' Scam?

As contactless payments have become more common, cyber fraudsters have also found new ways to exploit them. In Ghost Tapping, the scammer uses an NFC-enabled device, and the victim doesn't even realize that a payment has been triggered from their card or phone. It doesn't require entering card details or an OTP. If Tap-to-Pay is enabled on your card or smartphone, a fraudster can initiate a transaction using wireless technology by simply standing very close to you.

How is this fraud carried out?

Ghost Tapping is entirely based on NFC (Near Field Communication) technology, which is used by platforms like Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Wallet. Fraudsters carry modified smartphones or portable NFC readers. They stand near their targets for a few seconds at airports, crowded markets, festivals, or large events. Sometimes, fake shopkeepers ask customers to tap their cards for small payments, and either an excessive amount is deducted, or the user doesn't even realize that a transaction has taken place.

Where are these cases most prevalent?

So far, no official data from any single country has been released, but according to cybersecurity experts, this fraud has been observed more frequently in areas with high tourism. The US, UK, France, Spain, Italy, Thailand, Indonesia, and several international airports and transit hubs are reportedly included in this list.

Why do travelers become easy targets?

During travel, people rely heavily on Tap-to-Pay for quick payments. Crowds reduce vigilance, transaction alerts aren't checked immediately, and fraudulent vendors easily blend in with legitimate ones. Furthermore, the confusion of dealing with foreign currency often delays the realization of overcharging.

How to stay safe while traveling

Turning off NFC on your smartphone when not needed during travel is a wise precaution. Using an RFID-blocking wallet or card sleeve protects your cards. Avoid using Tap-to-Pay at unfamiliar or unverified stalls, and always keep instant transaction alerts enabled in your banking app. Use mobile wallets that offer biometric security.

Is Tap-to-Pay still safe?

Experts believe that Tap-to-Pay is still safer than swiping or inserting your card for payment because it uses encryption, making card cloning difficult. However, the risk of misuse increases in unfamiliar places and crowded areas. A little caution can save you from a lot of trouble.