What are gift card scams and how to avoid them?

Gift card scams are frauds where manipulators deceive people into buying these cards and extracting their secret codes.

Scammers are cunning. They use various tricks. From fake prizes to invented love stories. They also pretend to be computer technicians. Their goal is simple: to get those codes to spend or resell.

Imagine this. Someone creates a fake profile on Tinder. They make you fall in love. Then they have an "emergency". They need money now. Or maybe you receive a call. Your computer is "infected". The solution? Buy gift cards for the "technician". That's how it works.

How do these scams work?

Criminals prefer gift cards because money disappears without a trace.

The trick is quite predictable:

1. They create fake profiles or misleading websites.
2. They promise you huge profits. Too good.
3. They ask for a "small initial deposit" with gift cards.
4. You give them the codes. They disappear.
5. Your money disappears.

Signs that reveal a scam

It seems that in 2025 these frauds are more sophisticated, but they still leave clues.

You need to be alert. Typical signs:

• Impossible profits. No risk. Too perfect.
• "Pay with gift card". Strange, isn't it?
• Exaggerated urgency. "Decide NOW!"
• Unexpected messages. From unknown senders.
• They ask for personal information. They always want more.
• Complicated processes. Many unnecessary steps.
• Spelling mistakes. Poor grammar.
• Vague information. Confusing details.

Fraud prevention technology has improved quite a bit. But these scammers do not give up. They continuously adapt.

Protecting Yourself Against These Scams

Everything needs to be verified. Especially when it involves gift cards.

Some tips:

1. Be wary of unsolicited offers. If they come out of nowhere, be careful.
2. No legitimate person asks for gift cards as payment. No one.
3. Research thoroughly. Who are they really?
4. Keep your personal data safe. Your social security is yours.
5. Understand the risks. There are always risks.
6. Use your cards quickly. Don't leave them forgotten.

What if you already fell into the trap?

If you were scammed, act fast. Every minute counts.

Steps to follow:

• Cut contact. Now. Don't talk to them anymore.
• Report to the FTC. Don't stay silent.
• Call the card company. Keep everything as evidence.
• If you provided personal information, alert the credit agencies.
• Go to the police. File a formal complaint.
• Learn for next time. This must not happen again.

Recent data is concerning. Scammers now make small purchases to avoid drawing attention. They use automated systems to drain cards in seconds.

Remember: no government entity will ask you to pay with gift cards. Ever. If someone does, it's a scam. Almost certainly.