You might be familiar with the classic gift card scam; a fraudster calls or texts a victim, asking them to purchase Apple, Google Play, or other prepaid cards<\/a>. The scammer then coerces the victim into divulging their gift cards\u2019 redemption details and makes off with the balance, never to be heard from again.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Some fraudsters are taking this classic scam to the next level by targeting debit card users instead, though.<\/p>\n\n\n\n In a scam known as \u201ccard cracking,\u201d fraudsters use social engineering techniques<\/a>, including promises of \u201ceasy money,\u201d to convince victims to reveal their card numbers<\/a> and PINs. Once in possession of these sensitive details, fraudsters deposit a fake check and then make immediate withdrawals, leaving victims holding the bag. [noun]\/k\u00e4rd \u2022 krak \u2022 iNG\/<\/p><\/div> Card cracking is a second-party fraud tactic where a fraudster manipulates a victim into sharing their debit card information by advertising it as an easy way to make money.<\/p><\/dd><\/div><\/dl>\n\n\n\n Typically, the scammer will claim that they need to borrow the victim\u2019s bank account to make a purchase.<\/p>\n\n\n\n If the victim supplies their debit card details \u2014 including their card number, PIN, and login details \u2014 the fraudster leaps into action and writes the victim a fake check. The fraudster instructs the victim to deposit it, promising a portion of the funds as compensation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n The victim deposits the check, and the fraudster uses the victim\u2019s debit card information to purchase goods or services, money orders, or make ATM withdrawals. Several days later, the check bounces, and the victim is out the amount withdrawn by the scammer, and may be assessed a bounced check fee by their issuing bank<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Card cracking is a multi-step scam that typically involves a bank-linked debit card supplied by a victim and a fake check written by the fraudster. Here\u2019s how it works.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In this article, I\u2019ll talk in detail about card cracking. Together, we\u2019ll examine who\u2019s at risk, discuss who\u2019s most affected by the scam, and talk about how to protect yourself from this threat.<\/p>\n\n\n\nRecommended reading<\/h3><\/div>
What is Card Cracking?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
How Card Cracking Works: Step-by-Step<\/h2>\n\n\n\n