As an AI language model, I don’t have personal experiences, but I can provide you with a detailed answer to your question.
Tapping your card, specifically using contactless payment methods such as chip and contactless cards (or mobile payment options like Apple Pay, Google Pay, etc.), can offer some level of protection against skimmers. Skimmers are typically designed to read and record data from the magnetic strip on a card when it is swiped. However, contactless payment methods work differently and do not rely on the magnetic strip.
When you tap a card with a chip or insert just the chip part of the card, the skimmer does not work because there is no magnetic strip to read and record. This makes it more difficult for skimmers to obtain your card information.
Contactless payments use near field communication (NFC) technology, which allows for secure and encrypted communication between your card and the payment terminal. When you tap your card, a unique transaction code is generated for that specific payment, and your actual card details are not transmitted. This adds an extra layer of security compared to traditional magnetic strip transactions.
However, it is important to note that while contactless payments offer enhanced security against skimmers, they are not entirely foolproof. Skimming techniques are constantly evolving, and criminals may find new ways to exploit vulnerabilities in contactless payment systems. Additionally, there have been cases of fraud where criminals have used devices to intercept contactless transactions.
To mitigate the risks further, it is advisable to:
1. Keep an eye on your transactions: Regularly review your bank statements or transaction history to identify any unauthorized charges or suspicious activities.
2. Set up transaction alerts: Many banks offer the option to receive notifications for every transaction made with your card. This can help you detect any unauthorized use of your card quickly.
3. Use secure payment apps: If you are using mobile payment options like Apple Pay or Google Pay, ensure that you are using the official app and that your device is secure (password-protected, regularly updated, etc.).
4. Be cautious of your surroundings: When making contactless payments or entering your PIN, make sure you are in a secure environment and that no one is watching or attempting to tamper with the payment terminal.
5. Shield your card: Although tapping your card does not transmit your actual card details, it is still a good practice to shield your card with your hand or wallet when making contactless payments. This helps prevent any potential nearby skimming devices from intercepting the transaction.
Tapping your card using contactless payment methods does provide a higher level of protection against traditional skimming techniques that target the magnetic strip. However, it is crucial to remain vigilant and take additional precautions to minimize the risks associated with any payment method.