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Modern technologies provide convenience in financial transactions, but at the same time create new opportunities for fraudsters. One of the most common methods of stealing money from bank cards is fraud through NFC technologies.
What is NFC and how is it used in bank cards?
NFC (Near Field Communication) — is a wireless data transmission technology over short distances, which allows exchanging information between devices when they are close to each other. The most common use of NFC is contactless payments, such as PayPass, which are actively being implemented in our daily lives. NFC-enabled payment cards allow purchases by simply bringing the card close to the terminal, which significantly simplifies the payment process.
However, this convenient technology also creates a risk for cardholders. Since data can be transmitted without special contact, fraudsters use similar methods to commit theft.
NFC Card Fraud: Main Methods
The main fraud schemes are associated with the use of skimming equipment. These are devices that read information from bank cards using NFC technology. Fraudsters can use specially prepared devices for remote reading of card data when the victim passes by them. Thus, bank card information can be copied even without direct contact.
There are several theft methods that fraudsters use to carry out their scams. One of the most common — is contactless skimming. In this case, fraudsters use pocket scanners that can read card data within a range of up to 10 cm. They can operate both on public transport and in stores, making payments when the potential victim is unaware of the threat.
How do fraudsters steal money through PayPass?
PayPass — is a system that allows cardholders to pay for purchases without entering a PIN code. This significantly simplifies the process but also creates additional risks. Fraudsters understand that many people leave their cards in pockets or purses without thinking about security. Using special devices, they can not only read the card number data but also the expiration date and other accompanying content.
When the information is successfully read, fraudsters can make unauthorized transactions in online stores or transfer funds to other accounts. This happens under the guise of convenience promised by contactless payment, turning it into a danger.
Contactless Skimming: Ways to Protect
To minimize risks, it is important to know about protection methods against contactless skimming. One of the most reliable ways — is the use of special protective card sleeves. These sleeves block the NFC signal, preventing fraudsters from reading the information. It is also recommended to avoid storing the card in pockets where it can easily fall into the range of a fraudulent device.
Another effective way is to activate notifications about card transactions. Many banks offer this service, allowing cardholders to receive instant notifications about any transactions. This can help quickly detect unauthorized operations and block the card, for example, if money is immediately withdrawn from the card.
Main PayPass Payment Scams
Fraudsters use various schemes to deceive by using PayPass technology. One common tactic is that fraudsters create fake payment terminals. Such devices may look like regular terminals, but in reality, they are designed to steal funds from cards.
In some cases, fraudsters may attract a customer's attention to a product or service and ask customers to make a payment on their terminal, which turns out to be a real fraudulent device. It is important to be careful and use only official terminals installed in stores and retail outlets.
How Money is Stolen through NFC: Methods and Examples
There are many ways fraudsters can carry out their intentions using NFC technology. For example, they can use fake readers at festivals, markets, or places with large crowds. In such conditions, a fraudster can simply be near the victim and scan the data.
Recently conducted studies show that NFC fraud continues to grow. One of the most high-profile scams occurred in a major city, where several fraudsters worked in advance, identifying victims, and then creating fake devices that not only excessively duplicated payment terminals but also caught the card signal, being literally a few centimeters away.
Fraudsters in Public Transport: How They Operate
Public transport — is another favorite place for fraudsters. People are relaxed here and often do not pay attention to those around them. There are several methods they use:
- Fraudsters may linger near the victim when they are getting on or off the transport. At this time, they use their devices to secretly read data.
- They often work in groups, distracting the victim's attention while another fraudster gains access to the card data.
- Some fraudsters even create special smartphone applications that can read NFC cards. Thus, the victim may not notice how the theft takes place.
- It is important to stay away from suspicious individuals in public transport and be cautious when using the card. If you feel your data has been stolen, contact the bank immediately.
How to Protect Yourself from NFC Fraudsters?
There are several ways to increase your security level:
- Regularly check bank statements. This will quickly detect suspicious operations and block the card if necessary.
- Use lockable cards. Some banks offer NFC blocking technology, which allows keeping the signal off until a special button is pressed.
- Do not trust unknown persons. Do not let anyone use your cards and avoid providing personal information.
- Understanding how NFC technology works and how fraudsters use it for their purposes will help you be more informed and guard against potential threats.
With the increasing popularity of contactless payment technologies, there are a number of threats associated with NFC fraud. By applying caution and following simple protection tips, you can significantly reduce the risks of data theft from bank cards. Make sure you are always on guard and regularly check the status of your finances.