How to avoid tap-to-pay scams and protect your bank account

Key Points:

• The Better Business Bureau warns about tap-to-pay scams where criminals exploit quick, distracted donations to steal large sums directly from victims' bank accounts.
• Scammers often use high-pressure tactics, mismatched amounts on payment screens, and insist on tap-to-pay only, making it essential to verify the amount and recipient before tapping.
• Experts advise taking time to read the payment screen, keeping control of your device, and refusing donations to unknown organizations without verifying their legitimacy later.
• Turning off tap-to-pay when not in use, using credit cards over debit cards for donations, and requesting receipts can provide additional layers of protection against fraud.
• If scammed, victims should promptly review transaction details and contact their bank to dispute charges, while remembering that many have been deceived and should not feel ashamed.