Risky Tech-Based Theft: How Portable POS Terminals Are Used for Fraud
A recent POS theft occurred in Sorrento, Italy, where law enforcement arrested someone after they attempted to steal €100 from a cash register in a city center bar. Police found a modified portable POS terminal during the search. This device, a SumUp Solo, operates independently without smartphone connection and is common in markets due to affordability and ease of use. The thief had been previously arrested in Rome with similar devices. Similar incidents occurred last year at a highway rest stop. Two scam methods exist: stealing wallets to make small transactions without PINs, or using crowded areas to place POS terminals near cards. Success rates are low due to transaction confirmation delays, precise card proximity needs, and no interfering elements. Defend yourself by using RFID-protected wallets, enabling bank app notifications for small transactions, and ensuring smartphone security for contactless payments.