“Ghost Tapping” Scams: How Tap-to-Pay Can Turn Into Tap-to-Steal
By Greg Collier
Tap-to-pay cards and mobile wallets are everywhere now. They’re fast, convenient, and generally secure.
But scammers are finding ways to abuse that convenience, and the Better Business Bureau is now warning about a growing scam they call “ghost tapping.”
This isn’t a hack. It’s a confidence trick that relies on distraction, social pressure, and people assuming tap-to-pay is always safe.
What’s Going On
According to the BBB, scammers are targeting people who use tap-to-pay cards or mobile wallets in crowded or distracting environments.
The idea is simple. Scammers get you to tap quickly without clearly seeing the amount and walk away with far more money than you expected to pay.
Several victims have already reported losing hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
How the “Ghost Tapping” Scam Works
Scammers typically rely on social engineering, not technology.
Common tactics include:
- Getting physically close in public places
- Pretending to be a legitimate vendor
- Running fake charity or fundraising pitches
- Rushing the transaction so you don’t stop to think
One reported case involved a man going door-to-door selling chocolate, claiming the money supported special-needs students. He told residents he could only accept tap-to-pay.
Once the victim tapped their card or phone, the scammer allegedly charged large amounts without clearly showing the total.
Reported losses included:
- One woman’s mother losing $537.
- Another victim lost $1,100.
By the time the charge was noticed, the scammer was long gone.
Why This Works
Tap-to-pay trains people to move fast.
Scammers exploit that by:
- Creating urgency
- Avoiding receipts
- Keeping screens angled away
- Using emotional hooks like charity appeals
- Operating where people are distracted (festivals, markets, busy sidewalks)
The technology isn’t broken, but human attention is.
Red Flags
The BBB says you should be suspicious if:
- You’re asked to tap without seeing the total
- No receipt is offered
- The seller insists on tap-to-pay only
- You receive small “test” charges on your account
- You notice strange charges after being in crowded areas
If someone won’t slow down or show you the amount clearly, that’s your cue to stop.
How to Protect Yourself
The BBB recommends several practical steps:
- Use an RFID-blocking wallet or sleeve
- Always confirm the payment amount before tapping
- Set up transaction alerts with your bank
- Regularly review your statements
- Limit tap-to-pay use in high-risk or crowded areas
Convenience should never override verification.
What to Do If You’re a Victim
If you think you’ve been hit by a ghost-tapping scam:
- Contact your bank or card issuer immediately
- Freeze or cancel the affected card
- Dispute the charges
- Report the scam to the BBB’s Scam Tracker
The faster you act, the better your chances of limiting the damage.
Final Thoughts
Tap-to-pay is generally safe, but it’s not magic.
Scammers don’t need to break encryption if they can rush you, distract you, or manipulate your trust.
If you didn’t clearly see the amount, didn’t get a receipt, or felt pressured to tap quickly, assume the worst and check your account immediately.
When it comes to tap-to-pay, slow beats stolen.
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