Contactless donation scams can turn small gifts into thousands-dollar losses

Charity solicitors operating in busy areas are exploiting contactless payment technology by entering excessive amounts on their devices before a donor taps. When the donor assumes a small donation, the payment screen may actually show a figure in the thousands, and the transaction is authorized if the donor does not double-check. Police in Brentwood warned of this tactic in early 2026, and the Washington State Attorney General cited examples where a $15 pledge turned into a $4,800 charge.

The article advises keeping personal devices secured with biometric locks and never relinquishing an unlocked phone to anyone during a payment. It also recommends reviewing transaction details, setting up banking alerts, and researching charities through official channels before donating. If an inflated charge occurs, victims should contact their bank immediately, preserve evidence, and monitor all financial accounts for further unauthorized activity.