A scam known as “ghost tapping” is raising concerns as thieves look for ways to exploit tap-to-pay technology in crowded places, including large San Antonio events such as Spurs watch parties and Fiesta gatherings, consumer advocates warn.
The scam uses near-field communication, or NFC, the same short-range technology behind tap-to-pay cards and mobile wallets. Scammers can use portable readers to try to trigger small unauthorized charges by getting close to someone’s card or phone, according to ConsumerAffairs and WOAI-TV.
ConsumerAffairs reported this month that fraud tied to the tactic has risen by about 150% over the past year, with scammers targeting busy places such as malls, airports and public transit.
Jason Meza, a Better Business Bureau representative, told WOAI that crowded events and packed venues create opportunities for scammers to get close without drawing attention, especially in places where people are quickly paying for food, drinks or merchandise.
Experts say large gatherings — from Fiesta events to packed Spurs watch parties — can create the kind of close-quarters environment where bad actors may try to take advantage of distracted crowds.
Consumers can reduce their risk by turning on instant transaction alerts, checking accounts regularly and reporting suspicious charges immediately, according to tips from the Better Business Bureau.
The bureau also recommends turning off NFC when it is not being used, keeping phones locked with a PIN, passcode or biometric authentication, and making sure payment apps are downloaded only from trusted providers and official app stores.
Experts also recommend using phone-based payments when possible because they typically require Face ID, a fingerprint or a passcode. RFID-blocking wallets or sleeves may also help protect physical cards, especially in crowded places where a card could be scanned without the owner noticing.