UFC-Que Choisir warns of a contactless payment scam which affects many French people

An alert on the growing risks of contactless payments

This technique, using hijacked electronic payment terminals (TPE), targets people in public places such as public transport.

Fraudsters approach victims to make automatic transactions without them realizing it.

This discretion allows the scam to often remain undetected until victims view bank statements.

How scammers exploit NFC technology

The fraudulent process is alarming in its simplicity: crooks equipped with a POS can initiate a contactless payment by simply standing near a bank card. This highlights a significant flaw in the security of NFC (Near Field Communication) technologies that enable these transactions.

In several cities such as Montpellier and Nice, citizens have reported unexpected withdrawals of 50 euros, the maximum authorized for this type of transaction without entering a PIN code.

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Tips to protect yourself from this scam

Faced with this threat, UFC-Que Choisir not only alerts the public, but also offers practical solutions to protect against this fraud. One of the most effective methods is the use of NFC anti-wave protection cases, available on the market.

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An inexpensive alternative is to wrap your bank card in aluminum foil, a simple solution that can significantly reduce the risk of fraud.

What to do if you are a victim?

If you notice unauthorized withdrawals from your account, it is crucial to contact your bank immediately.

According to the regulations, banks are required to reimburse the amounts fraudulently debited at no additional cost to the customer.

“Regulations require your bank to immediately reimburse you for all disputed payments,” recalls UFC-Que Choisir, emphasizing the importance of rapid action in the event of fraud.

• Use an NFC anti-wave protective case.
• Wrap your card in aluminum foil.
• Contact your bank promptly in the event of a suspicious transaction.
• Check your bank statements regularly.

Vigilance is required with the increase in cases of contactless payment scams.

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By taking simple protective measures and staying alert, you can significantly reduce your risk of becoming the next victim of this modern scam.