Is a request to pay with gift cards a scam?
A business, government agency, utility, or stranger demanding gift card numbers is scamming you.
“Buy two $500 Apple gift cards and send me photos of the numbers on the back. Do not tell the cashier why.”
Why this is suspicious
Gift card numbers work like cash and are difficult to recover once shared. Legitimate businesses and government agencies do not require gift cards as payment.
Warning signs
- They tell you which cards and stores to use
- They stay on the phone while you shop
- They ask for the number or a photo of the back
- They tell you what to say if a cashier asks questions
What to do next
- Do not buy or send additional cards
- If you already paid, contact the gift card company immediately and ask for your money back
- Keep the card and store receipt
- Report the scam at ReportFraud.ftc.gov
If you already clicked or paid
For guidance on what to do after a possible scam, visit the FTC’s recovery guide. It covers different situations, including payments and personal information.
Official source: FTC gift card scam guidance
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