What is ghost tapping? The contactless payment scam on the rise

Key takeaways

• Ghost tapping involves scammers using NFC-enabled devices or deceptive payment tactics to make unauthorised contactless charges.

• Crowded locations such as train stations, airports and tourist hotspots can increase the risk of becoming a target.

• Transaction alerts, RFID-blocking wallets and understanding credit card protections can help reduce the risk and limit the impact of fraud.

What is ghost tapping? 

Ghost tapping is a contactless payment scam where fraudsters use Near Field Communication (NFC) –a short-range wireless technology –to make unauthorised payments, without your approval.

Fraudsters can use concealed payment devices at close range in an attempt to trigger contactless transactions from cards stored in pockets or bags.
In a matter of seconds, fraudsters can charge your card, without you even realising. 

Other forms of ghost tapping may see scammers posing as legitimate vendors, pressuring you into making contactless payments for goods or services, then charging a higher amount than expected without you realising.

The ghost tapping hotspots 

Ghost tapping scams rely on close proximity, meaning busy, crowded areas such as train stations, airports and tourist hotspots can be popular targets for opportunistic thieves to operate without attracting attention.

When travelling abroad, language barriers and unfamiliar payment systems can make it harder to spot mistakes or suspicious activity, increasing the risk of paying more than intended.

The good news is that there are several simple ways people can protect themselves from contactless fraud scams this summer.

Top tips to protect yourself from ghost tapping

1. Turn on transaction alerts

You can set up alerts through most banking apps, so you’ll be alerted to any unexpected payments. While transaction alerts won’t prevent fraud, they can help you spot unusual activity quickly and take action sooner.

Think of payment notifications as your financial smoke alarm. If you notice any suspicious payments, contact your bank straight away.

It’s also advisable to freeze your cards immediately if suspicious activity appears, before making any further payments.

If you don’t regularly check your account, statements, or have payment notifications set up, it may take longer to spot unusual activity.

2. Pack an RFID-blocking wallet

If you carry physical contactless cards, an RFID-blocking wallet or cardholder can provide an additional layer or protection.

These Radio Frequency Identification wallets use metal layers to block radio waves that devices use to read card data.

They’re often an affordable and widely available product that can offer you an added layer of protection and peace of mind.

3. Know your card protections before you travel

Only taking the cards you're likely to need when you leave the home can help reduce unnecessary risk if your wallet is lost, stolen or compromised.

In general, using a credit card can also offer better protections than a debit card.

Under Section 75 of the Consumer Credit Act, you’ll have extra protection for transactions between £100 and £30,000. This means you can claim directly from your card company if something goes wrong.

It’s a simple but powerful safeguard that can make all the difference if you’re caught out by a scam.