What is 'ghost tapping?' New scheme targeting tap-to-pay users

(WFLA) – The Better Business Bureau is warning tap-to-pay users of a new scheme that could make simple transactions costly.

"Ghost tapping" is a growing scheme that is targeting tap-to-pay cards and mobile wallets.

The BBB said criminals are using wireless devices to steal money without having to touch your credit or debit cards.

According to the bureau, crooks will try to trick unsuspecting individuals in public places in the following ways:

• Bumping 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.
• Requesting a small donation but actually charging your card for a much larger amount.
• Rushing the process. Scammers count on you tapping without checking the business name or transaction amount.

Fraudsters could also make small withdrawals to avoid triggering fraud detection systems.

The BBB said it has received several reports of this scheme.

One person shared the following experience on the "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.”

If you fall victim of a tap-to-pay scheme, the BBB said you should report the transaction immediately to your bank or card issuer, freeze or cancel the affected card, and report it to the "Scam Tracker."