Securing Your Payment Cards from NFC Attacks
- SEPTEMBER 16TH, 2024
- 1min read
Introduction
Near-Field Communication (NFC) is a technology that allows devices to communicate with each other when they’re in proximity. NFC typically works over the Near-Field Communication (NFC) protocol, a subset of radio frequency identification (RFID) technology. A quick tap-and-go process with the use of smartphones, smartwatches, and cards has greatly improved customer experience but is also accompanied by security concerns and risks.
Common NFC Security Attacks
- Eavesdropping: Malicious actors place a rogue NFC reader near a legitimate device to capture sensitive information without the user’s knowledge.
- Skimming: Attackers use NFC-enabled terminals to capture data from NFC devices, enabling card cloning or unauthorised transactions.
- Relay Attacks: Data from an NFC transaction is intercepted and relayed to another device for malicious use.
- Data Corruption: Attackers intercept, alter, or damage NFC-transmitted data, leading to unauthorised access, system malfunctions, or financial losses.
- Denial of Service (DoS): Overwhelm NFC devices with excessive data/requests to disrupt legitimate access and cause financial loss.
Best Practices Against NFC Attacks
- Trusted Devices and Sources: Initiate NFC connections only with trusted devices/apps from reputable developers.
- NFC/RFID-blocking Sleeves or Wallets: Prevent unauthorised scanning of cards/devices.
- Notification and Monitoring: Enable real-time transaction alerts; review device logs and report suspicious activity.
- Card Proximity: Keep cards out of sight (avoid back pockets/purses) to reduce skimming risks.
- Set Spending Limits: Restrict maximum transaction amounts for added protection.
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