New Jersey Faces Urgent Ghost Tapping Scam Targeting Shoppers

UPDATE: A new scam is sweeping through New Jersey, putting shoppers at risk of losing their hard-earned money. Dubbed “ghost tapping,” this alarming fraud scheme allows thieves to steal your credit card information simply by standing close to you. Experts warn this is happening NOW, and residents need to be on high alert.

According to the Better Business Bureau, ghost tapping involves fraudsters using concealed devices to extract data from digital wallets without any physical contact. This method is a departure from traditional scams and poses a serious threat to consumers. Paul Oster, president of Better Qualified in Eatontown, emphasizes the urgent need for caution, stating, “Scammers are stealing credit cards that a person has in a digital wallet, putting that information into a ghost phone, and then using that ghost phone at point-of-sales retail stores.”

The mechanics of ghost tapping are chilling. Thieves need only to be within a few feet of their target to access sensitive information. They employ hidden card readers, or “ghost phones,” to swipe data from unsuspecting victims, especially in crowded areas. “They are literally able to steal the cards in your digital wallet just by standing right next to you,” Oster explains. In some cases, scammers even trick victims into tapping their phones for fake transactions, leading to unauthorized access to banking details.

The implications of this scam extend beyond New Jersey. Reports indicate that these cybercriminals are recruiting associates from other countries, posing as tourists to evade detection while committing fraud globally. This tactic allows them to either resell stolen merchandise or profit from illegal sales on the black market.

To combat the ghost tapping epidemic, Oster urges New Jersey shoppers to avoid tap-to-pay transactions entirely. “Instead, go old school: insert or swipe your card,” he advises. “If you tap to pay and the merchant is part of this scam, they just stole your information.” Although tap-to-pay offers convenience, it also exposes personal and financial data to significant risk.

Here are critical tips to protect against ghost tapping:
– **Be cautious with unfamiliar merchants.** Always prefer to swipe or insert your card instead of tapping.
– **Verify transaction details.** Check the merchant’s name and the amount on the terminal screen before proceeding.
– **Use RFID-blocking sleeves or wallets.** These can help shield your cards from unauthorized scanning.
– **Set up transaction alerts with your bank.** This enables you to receive real-time notifications for every charge made.
– **Never share verification codes.** Scammers can use these codes to gain access to your accounts.
– **Stay vigilant against phishing attempts.** Be cautious of emails, texts, or calls that ask for personal information.

Oster humorously cautions, “I don’t say tap-to-pay anymore. I say it’s tap-to-pray.” This statement reflects the seriousness of the threat, emphasizing the need for heightened awareness among consumers.

As this disturbing trend continues to grow, residents are encouraged to share this information widely to protect themselves and others from becoming victims of ghost tapping. Stay informed and vigilant—your financial security may depend on it.