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Scammers are intercepting tap-to-pay purchases and stealing money
JJacksonville

Scammers are intercepting tap-to-pay purchases and stealing money

  • January 31, 2026

It’s called ‘Ghost Tapping’ and is contactless

Ghost Tapping is a scheme that allows scammers to charge debit and credit cards without physical contact. – Ghost Tapping is a scheme that allows scammers to charge debit and credit cards without physical contact.

This typically happens in crowded areas, like malls, sporting events, concerts, and bars.

The thieves then make small transactions, at first, between $5-$20 to avoid detection. The transactions often look like legitimate businesses, but they are not.

A cybersecurity analyst joined me during my 10 a.m. news streaming show on News4JAX+ to explain how the scheme works and how to spot if you have become a victim.

Press play above to watch the interview

Copyright 2026 by WJXT News4JAX – All rights reserved.

About the AuthorJennifer Waugh headshotJennifer Waugh

Jennifer, who anchors The Morning Shows and is part of the I-TEAM, loves working in her hometown of Jacksonville.

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