Protect yourself from gift card scams and fraud with our comprehensive safety guide. Learn to identify red flags, secure your cards, and know what to do if something goes wrong.
Gift card scams are on the rise. Stay informed and protected.
Phone Scams: Criminals impersonating government agencies, tech companies, or utilities demanding payment via gift cards. Remember: legitimate organizations never ask for payment via gift cards.
Legitimate businesses never ask for gift card payments for taxes, fines, bills, or prizes. If someone demands gift card payment, it's a scam. Hang up and report it.
Urgent demands, threats of arrest, claims you've won a prize, or "limited time" offers are all red flags. Hang up immediately if you hear these tactics.
Learn the warning signs of gift card fraud and scams
Scammers call claiming to be from IRS, police, utilities, or tech support. They create urgency and demand immediate gift card payment. Legitimate organizations never demand gift card payments.
Fake emails claiming you've won prizes, need to verify accounts, or owe money. They ask for gift cards as "verification" or "processing fees". Delete these emails immediately.
Fake websites selling discounted gift cards, romance scams requesting gift cards, or fake online stores that only accept gift card payments. Shop only at legitimate retailers.
Counterfeit or tampered gift cards with scratched-off codes, missing activation stickers, or suspicious packaging. Only buy from authorized retailers and check cards carefully before purchase.
Best practices for buying gift cards safely
Purchase gift cards only from authorized retailers, official websites, or directly from the brand's store. Avoid buying from individuals, auction sites, or unauthorized dealers.
Check for signs of tampering: scratched-off codes, loose stickers, damaged packaging, or missing security features. The card should look new and untouched.
Ask the cashier to activate the card and verify it works before you leave the store. Keep your receipt as proof of purchase until you've used the entire balance.
Many retailers allow you to register your gift card online or via mobile app. This provides protection against loss or theft and helps track your balance.
How to protect your gift cards after purchase
Take photos of your gift cards (front and back) and store them securely. Write down card numbers and codes in a separate, secure location. This helps with replacement if cards are lost or stolen.
Store physical gift cards like cash - in a secure wallet or safe place. Don't leave them in cars or visible locations. For digital codes, use password-protected files or secure note apps.
Never share gift card codes, numbers, or PIN over phone, email, or text. Scammers can use this information to steal your card's value. Only enter codes on official retailer websites.
Immediate steps to take if you've fallen victim to a gift card scam
Immediately call the gift card company's customer service. Report the scam and provide your card information. Some companies may be able to freeze remaining funds or provide refunds.
File a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. This helps authorities track scam patterns and may assist in recovery efforts.
If you used a credit card or bank account to buy the gift cards, contact your bank immediately. You may be able to dispute the charges or reverse the transaction.
Share your experience with family and friends to prevent them from falling victim to similar scams. Report scam phone numbers to your phone company's spam blocking service.
Important numbers to keep handy for gift card emergencies
1-877-FTC-HELP
Report fraud and get help with consumer issues.
Open Monday-Friday 9am-8pm ET.
IC3.gov
Report internet-related crimes including online
gift card scams and cyber fraud.
NAAG.org
Find your state's attorney general office
to report consumer fraud and scams.
Check Card Back
Customer service numbers are usually
printed on the back of gift cards.