There is a new warning circulating among consumer protection lawyers and fraud experts, and it is one that every senior who uses a debit card should know about. It is called the “Ghost Tap” scam, and it is a clever, unsettling way for thieves to steal money from your account without ever touching your card. Here is how it works and how you can protect yourself.
What Is the Ghost Tap Trick?
The Ghost Tap scam does not require a thief to steal your physical card. Instead, they use a small, portable device that can be hidden in a pocket or bag. This device is a portable card reader or a relay device. When you tap your card or phone on a legitimate payment terminal, the thief’s device captures the signal from your card and relays it to another device held by an accomplice at a different location. That accomplice then taps a payment terminal at a store, pretending to make a purchase. Because your card’s signal was relayed in real time, the transaction goes through as if you were the one making the purchase.
Why It Is Dangerous for Seniors
- It is silent and invisible. You won’t feel a thing, and you won’t see anyone near you.
- It works on contactless cards. Many seniors now use tap-to-pay for its convenience.
- It is hard to detect. The transaction may appear on your statement as a purchase you never made, but it can be easy to overlook if you don’t check your account regularly.
How to Protect Yourself
- Use an RFID-blocking wallet. These wallets contain a special lining that blocks the signals from your cards. They are inexpensive and widely available.
- Keep your card in a shielded sleeve. If you don’t want to buy a new wallet, you can buy individual RFID-blocking sleeves for your cards.
- Turn off tap-to-pay on your debit card. You can call your bank and ask them to disable the contactless feature on your card. You will still be able to use the chip or swipe it, but the tap function will be turned off.
- Use a credit card instead of a debit card when possible. Credit cards offer stronger fraud protection, and your bank account is not directly at risk.
- Check your bank statements regularly. Look for small, unfamiliar transactions. Thieves often test with a small purchase before making a larger one.
- Cover your card when tapping. Hold your hand over the card or use your wallet to block the signal from other directions.
- Set up account alerts. Many banks will send you a text message or email for every transaction over a certain amount.
What to Do If You Are a Victim
If you see a transaction you don’t recognize, contact your bank immediately. The sooner you report it, the better your chances of getting your money back. Federal law limits your liability for unauthorized transactions, but you must report them promptly.
A Gentle Reminder
This warning is not meant to scare you, but to inform you. Knowledge is your best defense. By taking a few simple precautions, you can continue to use your debit card with confidence. You’ve worked hard for your money. You deserve to keep it safe.
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