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A new scam called ghostly tapping is spreading throughout the country. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) warns that scammers are using these tactics to steal money from people who use tap-to-pay credit cards and mobile wallets.
This scam uses wireless technology withdraw money without your knowledge. Many victims only realize something is wrong after small, undetected transactions slowly drain their accounts.
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The Better Business Bureau is warning of a new “ghost tapping” scam siphoning money from tap-to-pay cards and mobile wallets. (Clara Margais/Photo Alliance via Getty Images)
How the ghost bugging scam works
Fraudsters use near field communication (NFC) devices that mimic legitimate tap-to-pay systems. In busy places like festivals, markets or public transport, they get close enough to your wallet or phone to initiate a transaction.
The BBB reports that some scammers are posing as charity merchants or market vendors who only accept faucet payments. As soon as you tap your card or phone, they will withdraw a much larger amount than the agreed amount.
Because the first few withdrawals are usually small, they often go undetected by fraud systems. Victims may not notice this until much later, when more money is stolen.
Real cases and warnings
A Missouri A resident reportedly lost $100 after being approached by a man with a handheld card reader. BBB Scam Tracker has documented many similar cases across the country, with losses sometimes exceeding $1,000.
Officials warn that scammers may trick you into making a payment quickly without allowing you to verify the amount or the name of the merchant. Some even carry handheld readers that can pick up signals through thin wallets or handbags.
How to protect yourself from ghost eavesdropping
While the threat of ghost eavesdropping may seem alarming, protecting yourself is easier than you think. A few smart safety habits and tools can greatly reduce your risk of becoming a victim.
1) Use RFID blocking technology.
Invest in RFID Blocking Wallet or Card Case to create a physical barrier between your card and potential scanners. These inexpensive tools prevent scammers from reading your card information through clothing, bags or wallets. Look for sleeves or wallets specifically designed to block wireless communications.
2) Check before you click
Always check the merchant name and transaction amount displayed on the payment terminal before clicking. Fraudsters often rush you to avoid verification. Take an extra second to make sure what you see matches the amount you agreed to pay. If something is wrong, cancel the transaction immediately.
3) Set up instant alerts
Enable instant transaction alerts from your bank or credit card provider. This allows you to know the moment a payment is made, giving you the ability to immediately detect unauthorized activity. Quick detection can prevent further charges and make it easier to challenge fraudulent transactions.
Bonus protection: Even if you prevent fraud in advance, your personal information may end up being sold online. Our #1 identity theft company monitors your credit and financial information, alerting you if your data appears on the dark web or in the event of a data breach.
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You can also use a data deletion service to automatically remove your personal information from the data broker sites that sell it, removing you from scammer lists until the next attack.
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The BBB says reports of “ghost wiretaps” are on the rise, with some victims losing more than $1,000 in no-contact thefts. (M. Scott Brower/Bloomberg via Getty Images)
4) Be careful in crowded places.
Crowded places such as festivals, public transport or street fairs create ideal conditions for scammers. Limit your use of tap-to-pay in these situations. Instead, use chipping or swiping methods, which require physical contact and are more difficult to operate.
5) Monitor your accounts regularly
Make it a habit to check your financial accounts at least once a week. Review every transaction carefully and report any suspicious transactions to your bank immediately. Even small, unexplained accusations can signal a larger problem.
6) Use the security features of the payment application.
Most mobile wallet apps allow you to set PIN codes, facial recognition or fingerprint verification before authorizing a transaction. Make sure these protections are enabled. This creates another barrier that prevents criminals from initiating payments without your consent.
7) Keep your payment apps and devices updated.
Keep your smartphone software and mobile wallet apps updated regularly. Updates often include security patches that protect against newly discovered vulnerabilities that could be exploited by scammers. Outdated software can expose your data.
Stay protected from payment-stealing malware:
In addition to updating apps, protect your device from hidden threats with powerful antivirus software. It scans devices for malware and spyware that could steal your payment data or record sensitive information.
Get my picks for 2025's top antivirus protection winners for your Windows, Mac, Android, and iOS devices at Cyberguy.com.
8) Do not store multiple cards in mobile wallets.
While it's convenient, storing multiple cards in one app can increase your exposure if your phone compromised. Keep only the cards you use most often in your mobile wallet. This reduces the impact of potential fraudulent activity.
9) Report suspicious activity immediately.
If you ever suspect ghosting or notice a strange charge, contact your bank immediately and report the scam to the BBB Scam Tracker. Quick action can help prevent additional losses and help authorities identify fraud trends.
Victims of ghosting often lose money through small, undetected transactions before realizing they have been scammed. (Leonie Asendorpf/Photography Alliance via Getty Images)
Kurt's key takeaways
As contactless payments become more common, scammers are becoming more creative. Staying informed and careful can help protect your money. Small steps like checking your transaction history and wearing protective gear can make a big difference. If you notice unauthorized charges, contact your bank immediately, freeze your card, and report the fraud to the BBB Scam Tracker. Technology offers convenience but may also create new risks. The ghost wiretapping scam shows how quick and easy payments can be fraught with hidden dangers. Awareness and prevention remain the best ways to keep your finances safe.
Will you continue to use tap-to-pay after learning about ghost tapping, or will you return to more traditional payment methods? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com.
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