Web Skimming Campaigns Exploit Major Payment Networks to Steal Card Data
WASHINGTON, D.C. — As online shopping continues to dominate consumer behavior, a hidden cyber threat is quietly siphoning sensitive payment information from unsuspecting shoppers. Researchers tracking a persistent wave of web skimming attacks have uncovered sophisticated campaigns targeting businesses linked to major payment networks. These attacks employ obfuscated JavaScript code embedded directly into checkout pages, enabling criminals to steal credit card data without triggering traditional security defenses.
Known collectively as Magecart, these threat actors specialize in injecting malicious scripts into e-commerce websites. Unlike direct hacks on financial institutions, Magecart groups exploit vulnerabilities in online retailers’ checkout processes. The malicious code captures card numbers, expiration dates, security codes, and billing information as customers enter them, all while allowing transactions to proceed normally. This stealthy approach leaves victims unaware until fraudulent charges appear on their statements.
“Web skimming attacks operate silently within the browser environment, making detection extremely difficult,” explained cybersecurity analyst Kurt Knutsson in his recent CyberGuy Report. “Because the checkout pages still function as expected, shoppers and merchants often remain oblivious to the breach.”
The evolution of Magecart attacks reflects a shift in cybercriminal tactics. Originally associated with Magento-based platforms, these campaigns now span a broad range of e-commerce sites and payment systems worldwide. The attackers’ use of JavaScript—a ubiquitous web programming language designed to enhance user interaction—allows them to seamlessly embed data-stealing code alongside legitimate site functions.
Federal agencies and cybersecurity organizations have issued warnings about the growing prevalence of these attacks. The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) has emphasized the importance of monitoring web traffic and implementing robust security protocols to detect unauthorized script injections. Meanwhile, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) advises consumers to regularly review bank statements and use credit monitoring services to identify suspicious activity promptly.
Payment providers connected to these compromised merchants have also been targeted, amplifying the potential impact of the attacks. By infiltrating the checkout process, attackers can harvest payment data before it reaches the payment networks, circumventing many traditional fraud detection mechanisms.
Industry experts recommend that retailers strengthen their defenses by employing Content Security Policies (CSPs), subresource integrity checks, and regular code audits to prevent unauthorized script execution. Additionally, collaboration with cybersecurity firms and law enforcement agencies can help identify and mitigate emerging threats.
As the holiday shopping season approaches, the risk of web skimming attacks is expected to rise, underscoring the need for vigilance among both merchants and consumers. The U.S. Secret Service continues to investigate these campaigns, working alongside private sector partners to disrupt criminal infrastructure and protect the integrity of online transactions.
In a digital economy reliant on trust and security, the ongoing battle against web skimming underscores the critical importance of proactive cybersecurity measures. Shoppers are urged to remain cautious, use trusted payment methods, and report any unauthorized charges immediately to their financial institutions.
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