Spot a gift card scam
No real business or government agency asks you to pay with a gift card. If someone does, it's a scam, every time.
- Notice the ask: pay a bill, fine, fee or emergency with a gift card. That alone is the giveaway.
- Watch for pressure to buy right now, at a store they name, while they stay on the phone. Hang up.
- Never read out or photograph the card number and PIN on the back.
- Already paid? Call the gift card company straight away, keep the card and receipt, and report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.
Try it now: "This is the power company: pay $500 in gift cards in an hour or we cut you off." Scam or real? [Scam: utilities don't take gift cards.]
Next crumbs
- 💵 MoneySpot a phishing text or email"Your account is locked, tap here" is the oldest trick going. Four checks catch most of them.
- 💵 MoneyPlace a free fraud alert on your creditThink your details leaked? One call or form makes lenders check with you before opening credit in your name, at all three bureaus.
- 💵 MoneyCheck a financial pro on BrokerCheckBefore you hand anyone money to invest, a free 1-minute search shows their licences, job history and any complaints.