Fraudsters are trying a new trick. A fake app can be used to misuse your payment card 

NFC (Near Field Communication) technology is commonly used for convenient contactless payments by mobile phone or smartwatch in shops. Fraudsters have now found a way to abuse this technology and steal money from you. 

How does the scam work?

1. You may receive a call from someone pretending to be a bank employee, a police officer or a representative of the Czech central bank. They claim that your account has been compromised and urge you to install a “security app” immediately. 
2. Shortly afterwards, you receive an SMS or a message via WhatsApp or a similar service with a link to download the app. The app looks convincing and often imitates the official website or branding of a bank or the Czech central bank. 
3. After installation, the fraudster instructs you to place your payment card against your phone and enter your card PIN into the app for “verification”. 
4. By placing the card against the phone, the card details are transferred to the malicious app. The fraudster then gains full access to your card and can withdraw cash from ATMs or pay in shops as if they physically had your card – without you realising it. 

How to protect yourself against the scam?

1. Never place your payment card against your phone at the request of someone else and never confirm anything by entering your card PIN. 
2. Do not install apps you do not know from links in SMS messages, WhatsApp messages or similar services. 
3. Always verify who you are communicating with. Fraudsters can pretend to be anyone. The police and central bank staff never contact people about a compromised bank account.