Tips to Avoid Getting Hit by Gift Card Scams During the Holidays

Gift cards are a convenient and popular choice for holiday gift giving, but consumer experts warn they are also a favorite target for scammers. Knowing what to look for before you buy can help protect your money and ensure your gift goes to the intended recipient.

If you’re purchasing a physical gift card, always inspect it carefully before heading to the checkout. The card’s PIN should be fully concealed at the time of purchase. If the protective covering has already been scratched off, that’s a red flag. Scammers can steal exposed PIN numbers and drain the funds before the card is ever gifted.

Shoppers are also urged to check for signs of tampering, including fake barcode stickers placed over the original barcode. These counterfeit codes are often linked to accounts controlled by scammers. When scanned at checkout, the money can be loaded onto the scammer’s account instead of the gift card you’re buying.

Experts say one of the safest options is to purchase gift cards directly online from reputable retailers. However, consumers should avoid buying gift cards from online auction sites or third-party sellers, where fraud is more common and protections are limited.

After purchasing a gift card, keep the receipt and take photos of both the front and back of the card. Let the recipient know they should check the balance as soon as they receive it. If registration is available, registering the card can add an extra layer of protection.

With a few simple precautions, holiday shoppers can reduce the risk of gift card scams and keep their seasonal giving stress-free.

Credit: CNN Newsource
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