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Scam alert: Thieves tricking digital wallet users

More consumers are using their phone to make purchases using apps like Apple Pay, Venmo, and Zelle, but scammers are finding new ways to target these digital wallets.

Crooks are tricking users with phishing, over payment schemes, canceled payment fraud, sweepstakes scams, and more, according to the BBB.

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Leroy Wilson of Dayton uses Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, and Google Pay and said he feels safe using them, but he does worry about potential scams when buying from an individual online.

“I had an identity theft thing a while back and now it’s just caution, caution, caution,” said Wilson.

Crooks are tricking digital wallet users with phishing, over payment schemes, cancelled payment fraud, sweepstakes scams, and more, according to the BBB.

“Basically, they are new twists on old schemes,” said Sheri Sword, Dayton and Miami Valley BBB, vice president of communications.

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One of the biggest risk with digital wallets the liability factor, according Sword.

A lot of the digital app vendors do not protect you against fraud. So, they will not reimburse you,” Sword said.

To protect your money from digital wallet scams, follow these steps:

  • Only link payment apps to your credit card. They offer fraud protection.
  • Only do business with retailers and people you know and trust.
  • Always monitor your accounts for fishy transactions.
  • Report any suspicious activity to your credit card company.

Use a strong passcode on your phone to keep any phone thieves from gaining access to your accounts.

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