Chicago, IL – A growing contactless payment scam known as “ghost tapping” is raising concerns as summer travel and large public events ramp up across the United States.
According to guidance shared by consumer protection agencies and law enforcement, “ghost tapping” involves scammers using handheld NFC (near-field communication) readers to wirelessly interact with contactless credit or debit cards. When a card is within close range—often just a few inches—the device can trigger small, unauthorized charges without the cardholder noticing.
These incidents are more likely to occur in crowded environments such as concerts, airports, festivals, and sporting events, where close physical proximity makes the activity harder to detect. Experts say scammers often begin with small “test” transactions that may not immediately alert victims, then escalate if the charges go unnoticed.
While many banks have fraud protections in place, the timing of detection can impact how quickly fraudulent activity is stopped.
To reduce risk this summer, consumers are encouraged to enable real-time transaction alerts through their bank or credit card provider. Keeping cards shielded inside a wallet—away from the outer edge—can also make a difference. Some consumers opt for RFID-blocking wallets or sleeves, which are designed to limit wireless scanning access.
Security professionals also recommend monitoring bank and mobile payment activity regularly and reporting any suspicious charges immediately, even if the amount appears minor.
With more people attending crowded events in the coming months, awareness and a few preventative steps can go a long way in avoiding this increasingly talked-about scam.
