Contactless Payment Users Face Ghost-Tapping Scam Risks
Scammers are using RFID devices to siphon small charges from unsuspecting users of mobile wallets and tap-to-pay cards.
Updated on Oct. 20, 2026 in Credit Cards
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The Better Business Bureau is warning consumers about a rise in ghost-tapping scams, where criminals use RFID devices to steal payment data from contactless cards or mobile wallets. This trend directly affects the 51% of Americans who now rely on tap-to-pay technology for daily transactions.
Why it matters
Scammers are exploiting the convenience of contactless payments by using scanners to lift information from devices held within two to three feet. This vulnerability allows them to bill unauthorized charges through third-party platforms, starting with small amounts that often go unnoticed.
Criminals attempt to lift data using RFID scanners from as far as 2 to 3 feet away. Once information is compromised, victims often see initial unauthorized charge attempts of just $1 or $2 before scammers move to larger amounts.
The players
Better Business Bureau
A private, non-profit organization that provides marketplace trust resources and alerts consumers to current fraud trends.
The details
Ghost-tapping occurs when a scammer stands in close proximity to a victim, using an RFID scanner to intercept sensitive payment information from a credit card or mobile wallet. Once captured, the perpetrator can use the stolen data to generate invoices or payment proposals through third-party platforms. Because the initial unauthorized charges are often as low as $1 or $2, these transactions can easily blend into a consumer's legitimate monthly statement.
Timeline
October 20, 2026: The Better Business Bureau issued an official warning regarding ghost-tapping scams.
Money Landscape
As digital payments reach a majority of American households, the risk of interception evolves beyond traditional card skimming. This shift highlights a new frontier for consumer fraud protections established by acts like the Fair Credit Billing Act.
Review your transaction statements regularly to identify and dispute small, unrecognized charges that could indicate an account breach. Contact your card issuer immediately if you spot unauthorized activity, as swift action is necessary to prevent larger future losses.
The takeaway
Ghost-tapping highlights the need to remain vigilant even when not physically handing over your payment card. Monitor your credit card and bank statements weekly for small, unverified charges that may serve as precursors to larger unauthorized withdrawals.
Further reading
For more information on protecting your accounts, visit our Credit Cards section.
More information
Find further safety tips and report potential fraud on the Better Business Bureau report site.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KXAN.
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Do you feel comfortable using contactless tap-to-pay methods for your everyday purchases?
