Beware of Holiday Gift Card Scams
The holiday season is a time of joy and generosity, but unfortunately, it’s also prime time for scammers. One of the most common schemes is the gift card scam, which tricks people into purchasing gift cards and sharing the information with fraudsters. These scams can be particularly harmful to seniors, who may feel pressured or confused by the fraudster’s tactics. In this post, we’ll explore how these scams work, how to protect yourself, and what steps to take if you or a loved one becomes a target.
What Does a Gift Card Scam Look Like?
Gift card scams can take many forms, but here are the most common scenarios:
Urgent Requests: You receive a call, email, or text from someone pretending to be a relative, friend, or even a company. They urgently ask for gift cards to solve an emergency or cover a bill.
Fake Sweepstakes or Prizes: Scammers tell you that you’ve won a prize, but to claim it, you need to pay fees with a gift card.
Impersonating Authority Figures: A fraudster may pose as a government official, tech support agent, or charity representative, claiming you owe money and insisting that gift cards are the fastest way to pay.
Once scammers have the gift card number and PIN, they can use the funds instantly, leaving victims with little recourse.
How to Protect Yourself and Loved Ones
Be Wary of Unsolicited Requests: Legitimate businesses and authorities will never ask for payment through gift cards.
Verify Before Acting: If you receive a request from a known contact, always confirm it by calling them directly.
Educate Loved Ones: Talk to family members, especially seniors, about the warning signs of gift card scams.
Check the Source: Avoid clicking on links or responding to messages from unfamiliar senders.
What to Do If You’re Targeted
If you suspect you’ve been targeted by a scam:
Stop Communication Immediately: Don’t share the gift card details.
Contact RGA Tech Support: We can help you stop the scam in it’s tracks and help keep you safe in the future.
Report the Scam: File a report with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at reportfraud.ftc.gov or contact your local law enforcement.
Warn Others: Let family and friends know if you’ve encountered a scam, so they can stay alert too.
Stay Safe This Holiday Season
Gift card scams prey on emotions and urgency, making it easy to fall into the trap—especially during the holidays. By staying vigilant and educating yourself and your loved ones, you can avoid becoming a victim.
If you or someone you know encounters a scam, don’t hesitate to report it. Together, we can make this holiday season joyful and scam-free.
