
ETC devices are divided into three types of cards: prepaid cards, debit cards, and bank co-branded cards. The likelihood of fraudulent charges varies among these three types of cards. Here is a detailed analysis: 1. Prepaid Cards: These cards require users to top up before use and are not linked to bank cards. Users can only use them after depositing money into the card. Therefore, they do not have the quick payment or cash deduction features and cannot be recognized or fraudulently charged by POS devices. 2. Debit Cards: These products include corporate debit cards and bank debit cards. Corporate debit cards are electronic payment cards for highways issued by provincial network companies to corporate users, allowing one account to correspond to multiple cards and vehicles, enabling transfer top-ups, consolidated invoice printing, and reducing corporate vehicle management costs. Bank debit cards are electronic payment cards for highways jointly issued by provincial network companies and partner banks, linked to designated bank cards or accounts, usable without top-up. Debit cards carry the risk of being fraudulently charged by POS devices that support quick payment. 3. Bank Co-branded Cards: These cards allow spending before repayment and combine financial functions with highway electronic payment, usable without top-up, featuring dual-card integration. These ETC bank co-branded cards are essentially bank cards with quick payment functionality, as they have and enable the 'small amount contactless payment without password or signature' feature. Therefore, when such a card is inserted into an in-vehicle ETC device, it may be fraudulently charged if encountered by a POS device that supports quick payment.

As a car owner who enjoys studying technology, I believe there is indeed a possibility of unauthorized transactions after installing an ETC device, but the risk is relatively small. The data transmission of ETC cards is encrypted for protection, just like mobile payments, making it difficult for criminals to directly crack. However, if the device is not installed properly—for example, if it's not firmly attached or has gaps—someone nearby could use a specialized scanner to steal the signal and make unauthorized transactions. I've encountered a similar situation where a small charge appeared on my bill after leaving my car parked outside overnight. Therefore, when installing the ETC device, make sure to have it properly installed at an authorized service center and ensure it's firmly attached. When parking, turn off the ETC function or remove the card for safekeeping. Additionally, since banks offer fraud protection, using a metal cardholder with a signal blocker can provide extra peace of mind. It's also a good habit to regularly check your bank transaction records to avoid significant losses. By taking these precautions, you can safely enjoy the convenience of ETC.

Having driven long distances for twenty years, I found ETC quite hassle-free after installation, but preventing theft requires experience. Never had any issues since installation because I chose the recommended spots by the bank for proper setup. The key is to avoid exposure when parked: turn off the device or remove the card and store it in a box when parking in unfamiliar places. A careless friend once got charged dozens of yuan but got the money back after timely complaint. I recommend linking a credit card instead of a debit card for better security; regularly check statements for anomalies. Ensure no gaps around the device and keep car windows clean. Overall, the risk is low—as long as you don’t overlook these small steps, installing ETC is actually a money- and time-saving helper.

After installing ETC, I always worry about unauthorized charges, especially when parking in busy cities. The key is prevention: choose a card with password protection, turn off the device or remove the card immediately after parking. Bank insurance can cover losses, but checking your account regularly is essential. Ensure the device is firmly attached to avoid leaving gaps for signal theft. Wrapping the card in metal foil prevents scanning. These habits have kept me worry-free for years.


