How to Spot and Avoid Gift Card Scams: Unmasking Gift Card Scams!

Have you ever received an unexpected email or text message claiming you’ve received a gift card? 

Does this scenario sound familiar? Getting a gift card offer is tempting, isn’t it? But watch out, as scammers can set this trap.

Imagine this: You’re enthusiastic about the prospect of a loose gift card, perhaps from your preferred retailer. You click on the link and get yourself on a fake website requested to where you offer your vital personal data unknowingly. Or worse, you are probably directed to buy a gift card and share the code with the scammer.

Gift card scams are on the rise, preying on our preference for quick rewards. These scammers often impersonate legitimate organizations, government groups, or even friends and family. They use different processes, from urgent requests to elaborate phishing schemes, to trick unsuspecting victims for money.

This blog explores gift card scammers’ common strategies, identifies the red flags to watch for, and provides valuable guidelines for avoiding scams. 

Let’s unravel the mystery of gift card scams and keep your money secure.

What Are Gift Card Scams?

Gift card scams involve scammers convincing victims to buy gift cards and taking the card information, including the PIN and other details, with them. Once they have this information, they use the gift cards for purchases or resell them online for cash, leaving your financial data vulnerable.

These scams are regularly disguised as:

• Fake Tech Support Calls: “Your pc has a virus; pay with a gift card to restore it!”
• Phishing Emails: Fake emails claim you’ve won a prize, but you must “pay charges” using a gift card.
• Impersonation Scams: Scammers pretending to be bosses, friends, or family members urgently asking for gift cards.
• Government Fraud: Faking the identity of IRS marketers or law enforcement, asking for gift cards to settle debts or fines.

How to Avoid Gift Card Scams

Let’s find out the ways to prevent gift card scams and methods to stay secure: 

1. Recognize Red Flags

If someone asks for payment in the gift cards, it’s a scam—no valid enterprise or organization does this.

2. Verify the Request

Always double-check the source if you receive calls, emails, or texts asking for gift cards. Call the person or organization immediately using a proper and legal number.

3. Protect Your Details

Don’t share gift card numbers or PINs, even if you know anyone or she/he appears trustworthy.

4. Avoid Suspicious Links

Phishing scams regularly involve hyperlinks that always take you to fake websites. Avoid clicking on links from unfamiliar sources.

5. Be Skeptical of Unsolicited Offers

If an offer sounds too good to be genuine, it might be a scam. Stay away! And always question if you see offers like “amazing deals,” “extra discounts,” or “urgent requests.”

Related Read: Top 5 Antivirus Black Friday & Cyber Monday Deals in 2024: Save Big With Best Deals

What to Do If You Fall for a Gift Card Scam

Well, if a scammer has finally successfully lured you into a gift card scam, don’t panic! We’ll tell you what measures you can take to neutralize the scam effect. 

1. Act Quickly

If you’ve shared gift card information, contact the store immediately. They might also help block the card if it has yet to be used.

2.File a Report

• Contact your local law enforcement.
• You must report the scam to the FTC (Federal Trade Commission) inside the U.S. Or applicable authorities in your region.

3. Monitor Your Accounts

Gift card scams may be connected to broader phishing scams. Therefore, monitoring your bank accounts and protecting your online information is essential.

4. Spread Awareness

Inform others about the scam so they don’t fall victim to it. 

How AVP Suite Can Protect You from Gift Card Scams

AVP Suite antivirus security protects you against online fraud and also from gift card scams. 

Here’s the way it continues you secure:

• Phishing Protection: AVP Suite identifies, blocks, and neutralizes phishing emails and malicious links before they even reach your inbox.
• Real-Time Monitoring: It informs you about suspicious websites or internet activities, ensuring your data safety.
• Identity Theft Protection: AVP Suite shields vital information like passwords and personal data.
• Scam Detection Alerts: Get alerts about unusual online habits or fraudulent transactions.

Having AVP Suite means you have data exclusivity on the Internet and, thus, peace of mind. This enables you to browse and explore the online world without fear of falling victim to scams.

Read More: Top Tips to Spot Phishing Lures & How to Resolve It!

Take Charge of Your Online Security

Scammers have become more competent, and so should you! Equip yourself with the right tools and knowledge to stay protected.

Ready to enhance your online security? Download AVP Suite antivirus security now and enjoy peace of mind with superior phishing scam safety, real-time monitoring, and impenetrable data protection. Don’t let scammers ruin your day—stay secure!

Gift card scams may be sneaky, but you can always outsmart them with the AVP Suite. Stay alert, stay informed, and keep your data exclusive!

Try AVP Suite for Free!