NFC readers used to steal cash by just brushing against your pocket.
👛 Contactless payments — without your consent
NFC (Near Field Communication) has made tap-to-pay incredibly convenient. Just wave your card or phone and the transaction is done. But criminals are now abusing this convenience by using wireless payment terminals to steal small amounts — without even touching you directly.
In crowded areas, scammers walk around with NFC-enabled payment readers and bump close enough to charge your card.
🎯 How the “Tap to Pay” Scam Works
- The scammer has a wireless payment terminal
These are legal devices used by businesses, but scammers open fake accounts to use them maliciously. - They program a small charge
Typically under $50 — just enough to avoid requiring a PIN on most contactless cards. - They get close — and tap your wallet
On a train, in a queue, or at a festival, they position the reader close to your bag or pocket. The payment goes through instantly, and you may not even notice. - Funds are routed to anonymous accounts
By the time you spot the transaction, the account is gone — or drained.
📍 Real-Life Cases
- London (2022): Several commuters reported unauthorized £15–£30 charges after riding packed Tube lines. Police later found a reader hidden inside a crossbody bag.
- Berlin (2023): A young man attending a crowded market had five small charges in one hour. All originated from a mobile reader carried in someone’s backpack.
🧠 Why This Scam Is So Effective
- Crowd camouflage: You can’t track who brushed against you.
- Low amounts: People often ignore or miss small charges.
- Accessible tech: Anyone can buy a card reader online.
🛡️ How to Protect Yourself
- ❌ Turn off contactless payments on your card via your bank app
- 🛡️ Use RFID-blocking wallets or sleeves
- 📲 Check your bank statements frequently
- 🧥 Avoid storing cards in easily reachable outer pockets
- 👨👩👧 Educate family and friends, especially older or younger relatives
📩 If you suspect you’ve been charged by a contactless skimmer,
Reach out to our team at: info@fast-recover.com
We can:
- Trace the terminal used
- Help you report to banks and police
- Secure your financial identity
- Offer tools to avoid repeat attacks
