Are TaptoPay Stickers A Scam? Now Here’s the Truth From Texas Experts

Watch Out at the Pump: New Scams and a Safer Way to Pay in Texas

Every year, I talk about it on the radio: scams at the gas pump. And every year, I wonder if anyone’s listening. But this year, I finally made the switch, and I’m here to tell you what the experts are now recommending: tap-to-pay is the safer way.

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Don’t Fall for the Fake Stickers

Recently, social media has exploded with videos of folks peeling off suspicious “tap-to-pay” stickers on gas pumps, warning that scammers are using them to steal your card info. But here’s the truth, straight from the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) and the Financial Crimes Intelligence Center (FCIC): those stickers are usually legit.

According to FCIC’s Jeff Roberts, most of those decals are standard replacements placed by fuel retailers to cover up worn-out or faded contactless payment spots. Still, if a sticker or device looks tampered with or suspicious, report it to the gas station, and don’t swipe your card.

Why Tap-to-Pay Is Safer Than Swiping

Here’s the new normal: Tap-to-pay, especially when used through a mobile payment app, is the safest way to pay at the pump. Criminals are still installing skimmers that steal info from your card’s magnetic strip when you swipe. That’s how they get you. Tap-to-pay helps shut that down.

I’ll admit, it took me a couple of months to change my ways. But now that I’ve made the switch, I see why the Texas Department of Public Safety and TDLR are encouraging it.

What to Do if You Suspect Tampering

If something doesn’t feel right, don’t ignore it. Report suspicious pump activity to the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). You can reach them on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 1-800-803-9202.

You can also visit TDLR's official website to look up licensed businesses or check for violations.