What are logs in carding?

[chushpan]

Logs in the context of carding are data that contain information about bank cards and transactions carried out using them. This data is collected by attackers for subsequent use for fraudulent purposes. Logs can be obtained through malware (e.g. Trojans), skimming devices or data leaks from banking systems.

What data does the logs contain?​

Logs typically include the following information:

1. Card details:
   • Card number (PAN — Primary Account Number).
   • Card validity period.
   • CVV/CVC-код (Card Verification Value/Code).
2. Cardholder information:
   • First and last name of the card owner.
   • Residential address (Billing Address).
   • Telephone number.
3. Transaction data:
   • Payment history.
   • IP addresses from which transactions were performed.
   • Authorization details (e.g. ARQC/ARPC).
4. Other data:
   • Logins and passwords for Internet banking.
   • Browser or session cookies.
   • Information about the issuing bank.

How are logs collected?​

Attackers use various methods to collect logs:

1. Malicious software (Trojans):
   • Programs such as Zeus, Emotet or Gozi steal data from infected computers.
   • They record keystrokes (keylogging), intercept data from input forms or copy cookies.
2. Skimming:
   • Devices installed on ATMs or POS terminals copy data from the card's magnetic strip.
3. Phishing:
   • Fraudsters send fake emails or create websites that imitate banks to steal user data.
4. Data Leaks:
   • Hacking of bank or merchant databases leads to leaks of card information.
5. Man-in-the-Middle атаки:
   • Interception of data during transmission between client and server.

What are logs used for?​

1. Cloning cards:
   • Attackers use the data to create clones of cards (for example, by writing them onto blank plastic using an MSR encoder).
2. Online shopping:
   • Logs are used to make online purchases where a physical card is not required.
3. Money transfers:
   • Card data is used to transfer funds to other accounts.
4. Black market sales:
   • Logs are often sold on the darknet. The price depends on the quality of the data (e.g. presence of CVV, expiration date).
5. Bypassing security systems:
   • Attackers use additional data (for example, Billing Address) to bypass AVS (Address Verification System) checks.

How to protect yourself from log theft?​

1. Use antivirus software:
   • Modern antiviruses can detect Trojans and malware.
2. Be careful with links and attachments:
   • Do not open suspicious emails or links.
3. Use two-factor authentication (2FA):
   • This adds an extra layer of protection to your account.
4. Check devices:
   • Inspect ATMs and terminals for skimming devices.
5. Check your statements regularly:
   • Watch for suspicious transactions and report them to your bank.
6. Use virtual cards:
   • Many banks offer disposable or virtual cards for online payments.

Conclusion​

Carding logs are valuable information for attackers, which can be used to steal money or conduct fraudulent transactions. To protect your data, it is important to follow security rules, use reliable tools, and regularly monitor the activity of your accounts.

If you have additional questions about carding logs or protection methods, please clarify them!