The Pasco County Sheriff’s Office encourages taking precautions to avoid becoming a victim of gift card scams this holiday season. Although gift cards have plenty of upsides; unfortunately, gift cards create an ideal opportunity for scammers. Check out the tips below to shop safe.
- Inspect gift cards for signs of tampering before purchasing or placing a balance on them
- If the PIN is exposed on a gift card, notify a store representative and choose an untampered card
- Never buy gift cards from an auction or community website
- Buy gift cards directly from the retailer; digital gift cards are a better option
- Save receipts after the purchase of a gift card
- Treat received gift cards like a debit card: change the security code to something creative
Carefully inspect gift cards before you purchase a balance on them. A scam often starts before a card is activated. Gift cards stored near the register and under security camera coverage are less likely to be tampered with.
Carefully review cards and packaging for signs of tampering or exposure. Scammers can take a photo or write down card numbers and check the balance later, searching for cards with an activated amount. If the PIN is exposed on a gift card, notify a store representative and choose an untampered card on which to load funds. Be mindful of replacement stickers that may cover security codes, and…
