Watch out for Near Field Communication Scams

Sunday, October 5th, 2025 -- 7:41 AM

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 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.  

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:

• Report them immediately to your bank or card issuer.
• Freeze or cancel the affected card.
• Report scams to BBB Scam Tracker

For more information or further inquiries, contact the Wisconsin BBB at www.bbb.org/wisconsin, 414-847-6000 or 1-800-273-1002. Consumers also can find more information about how to protect themselves from scams by following the Wisconsin BBB on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube.

Feel free to contact us with questions and/or comments.