Law enforcement agencies in Brentwood, Tennessee, and the Washington State Attorney General’s office have warned residents about a growing tap‑to‑pay charity scam. Scammers approach shoppers in busy areas, claim to represent a youth group or school fundraiser, and ask for a small donation. They then request payment via a contactless method such as Apple Pay, Google Pay, Square, or Cash App.
How the scam works
The fraudster enters a much larger amount—sometimes $2,000 or more—into the payment device before the victim taps their phone or card. The victim sees a small amount on the screen, taps, and unintentionally authorizes the inflated charge. In one reported case, a donor who thought they gave $15 was billed $4,800. Another donor who intended to give $20 saw a charge of nearly $5,000.
What to watch for
Scammers often create a sense of urgency, urging immediate donations. They may also claim a transaction failed and ask to take the victim’s phone to “fix” it. Handing over an unlocked device not only enables the inflated‑payment scheme but also exposes email, messages, and other financial apps to the fraudster.
Protecting yourself
Tap‑to‑pay remains a secure way to pay when used correctly. To avoid falling victim:
- Never hand an unlocked phone to a stranger.
- Always verify the amount displayed on the merchant’s screen before tapping.
- If pressured for an immediate donation, walk away.
- Research the organization independently—look up its official website and confirm its charitable status.
- Set up account alerts for card purchases and large transfers so you can spot unexpected charges instantly.
If you discover an inflated charge, contact your bank or card issuer right away, provide details of the encounter, and request a dispute or reversal. Keep screenshots, transaction confirmations, and notes about the location and time of the incident to aid any investigation.
Staying vigilant
Enable biometric locks or a PIN on payment apps, and regularly review security settings in services like Venmo, Cash App, PayPal, and your bank’s mobile app. By staying alert and controlling your device throughout the transaction, you can continue to enjoy the convenience of contactless payments without falling prey to fraud.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
