‘Carding’: what it is and how to protect yourself from this scam

He ‘carding It is an illegal practice that consists of accessing and using credit or debit card data without the proper authorization of the owner.

This is a scam that cybercriminals carry out using specialized techniques such as phishing or even fraudulently installing programs to collect sensitive card information.

After obtaining the data, they carry out very small transactions so as not to generate suspicion, until they manage to carry out a considerable level of fraud.

How ‘Carding’ works

In an attack of cardingcriminals send emails or text messages posing as trusted banking entities, indicating that they are agents or representatives of businesses and requesting confidential information from the user. The most common thing is that they ask you to click on a link that at first glance may seem legitimate, but is actually fraudulent.

If you fall into this trap and open the misleading attachment or link, either from your mobile phone or computer, hackers can install malicious software on your device that allows them to steal data, such as your card number, password or access credentials. to your bank accounts.

If criminals are unable to obtain your information in this way, they can use specialized programs to obtain different combinations of card numbers and their security codes.

When they have the information, they examine if it is actually valid data or if the card is blocked or inactive. To do this, they make a minimum purchase. Generally, they go to food stores, very cheap goods stores or pay subscriptions to streaming platforms such as Netflix, Disney Plus, Max…

If the test is successful, they identify that card as “passed.” After making these previous micropayments, they carry out fraud for higher amounts (as long as you have the money available) or proceed to sell it to the dark web.

How to protect yourself from carding

To protect you from a scam cardingit is essential that you block all emails or messages you receive from unknown senders or that ask you for confidential information.

Likewise, it is recommended that you regularly visit your bank’s website and monitor movements. If you see any strange transaction, contact your financial institution or file a report that you have been a victim of fraud with the competent bodies in your area, such as the National Police or the Civil Guard.

When connecting to the Internet, always do so from secure networks, like your home, for example. If you have to make a payment and you are on the street, use mobile data, not open Wi-Fi, as they are usually more vulnerable to this type of attack.

You may also consider enabling two-factor authentication (2FA) on your account. To do this, check with your bank if it has this functionality. If so, then activate this security layer because it will allow you to authorize operations using an additional code that you will receive on your phone.

Finally, consider using payment methods that do not directly compromise your bank card. The PayPal platform is a good option, but there are also other alternatives to PayPal on the market that offer services as intermediaries and even provide protection for purchases you make online.

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