Illinois Consumers Beware: BBB Warns of Tap-to-Pay Scams

Tap.  Pay.  Go.  It's quick, convenient, and scammers are now finding ways to take advantage of that split-second transaction.

The BBB is warning consumers about contactless payment fraud, a scam targeting tap-to-pay credit and debit cards as well as mobile wallets.  The technology behind these payments, known as NFC, allows devices to exchange information when they are held very close together.  While NFC itself is generally considered safe, scammers can exploit the technology when people are distracted, rushed, or surrounded by crowds.

Unlike older card scams that typically required physical access to a card, contactless payment fraud can happen without a scammer ever taking your card from your hand.

Illinois Consumers Beware: BBB Warns of Tap-to-Pay Scams

Canva

READ MORE: Rockford, I Got This Walmart Scam Call And You Might Be Next

One tactic involves getting uncomfortably close in a crowded public place.  A scammer may bump into someone or brush past them while attempting to make an unauthorized charge.

Fraudsters may also pose as legitimate vendors at festivals, flea markets, sporting events or other gatherings.  They could ask the customers to tap their card or phone to pay, only to charge an amount much higher than expected.

RELATED: BBB Warns Of Scammers Placing Fake QR Codes Over Real Ones

The biggest weapon they have is speed.  Scammers may rush you through a transaction before you have a chance to check the merchant's name or confirm the amount.  BBB has received reports of people being targeted.  In one case, a person reported that someone went door to door claiming to sell chocolate to support special-needs students.  The seller insisted on tap-to-pay and allegedly charged one victim $537 and another $1,100.

To protect yourself, slow down before tapping, verify the payment amount and merchant name, and check your bank or credit card statements.