Avoid being scammed by the 3 most common payment methods in 2025

It has never been simpler or more difficult to pay for anything. Scammers love the new ways of paying for things (contactless, QR code, bank transfers within seconds). Think again if you think you can’t be fooled! These tricks are very sneaky.

Here is a quick guide about the three types of payment you should be aware of and how to make sure your money stays where it’s supposed to.

QR code payments: So handy… for scammers too

When QR codes were only used for menus in lockdown, it was a new concept. Now you can scan a QR code to pay for anything from a lunch to a trinket at the market. The problem is that you don’t know what you’re getting until you open the link on your phone after scanning a QR code.

Scammers are fond of this. Scammers love this. They can add their own QR code over a legitimate one, or make a fake flyer containing a “special” code which leads to an actual site that takes your bank information. It’s possible that you won’t realise the danger until it is too late.

You can pay by QR code

• Check for a moment The code is not just a sticker placed on top of another item.
• Look closely If you see an incorrect web address, click away. If you see any spelling mistakes or if it looks strange, get out of there fast.
• Don’t enter personal details If you are not 100% sure that the website is real, don’t click on it. If in doubt, don’t!

Contactless cards are brilliantly simple, but also alarmingly dangerous

Paying by tapping your card? Who hasn’t done it? Since the pandemic, the limits have gone up to €50 or even €100, and it’s almost too easy to wave goodbye to your cash. Problem is that if someone pinches or finds your card, then they can swipe it before you notice.

Even worse, in crowded places, scammers have started using sneaky card readers that can grab your card’s info just by getting close enough—no PIN needed, and you’ll have no idea it happened.

Stay safe

• Keep your credit card in an RFID-blocking wallet or a pocket with a zipper.—especially in busy places.
• Regularly check your bank account balance For any small charges that you do not recognize.
• Your card has gone walkiesIt is best to block it right away.

Instant bank transfer: fast money and no second chances

The latest trend is instant transfers across Europe, which are quick and free. Sounds perfect, doesn’t it? But it’s a gift for scammers, because once you hit send, your money’s gone in seconds—and there’s no way to pull it back.

You might receive a text message saying that you have a package in the mail, or you may get a phone call from someone pretending to be your bank asking you to send a payment to “verify”. Scammers will sometimes send you money, then tell a false story about an “accidental’ payment. They will ask for your money back.

You can make an instant transfer by:

• Double, triple, quadruple check Only pay people you trust. You should only pay people who you can trust.
• Do not let anyone rush you—if someone says it’s urgent or you’ll miss out, take a breath and check their story.
• Use instant transfer only for friends and family. Never send money to strangers.

One Last Thing…

Scammers are constantly looking for loopholes. It pays to be alert. Don’t feel bad if you nearly fall for something—these tricks are designed to catch you off guard. The best defense? Trust your gut. Trust your gut.

Remember: it’s YOUR money. Do not let anyone decide where your money goes.