Beware of Gift Card Scams

Scammers are using gift cards to their advantage.

As the holidays quickly approach, scammers are looking for ways to take advantage of innocent people. One technique they use pressuring people to purchase gift cards as a form of payment. This tactic allows the thieves to take the victims’ money without anyway to trace it.

Something to consider: if a someone contacts you and asks you to purchase a gift card, it is very likely a scam.

Beware of the following

• Scammers may contact you via phone, email, or text message
• They may pretend to be a financial institution, utility company or a tech company
• These people may tell you that your account has been compromised or you have an outstanding bill

Once the scammers feel that you trust them, they will tell you to purchase a gift card to resolve the situation. Many times, they will stay on the phone with you while you are purchasing the gift card and then demand that you read the card number and PIN or send them a photo with this information. After you give them that information, they now have access to these funds.

How to protect yourself for falling for gift card scams

• Do not purchase a gift card for a stranger.
• If you receive a suspicious phone call, email, or text message ignore it.
• Should you pay a scammer with gift cards, contact the gift card company immediately. They may be able to refund your funds before the money is gone.
• Report the incident to the Federal Trade Commission and the Washington State Attorney General.

If you believe someone has gained access to your personal information or if you are a victim of a scam, please contact us immediately. Sound is here for you and together we can keep your personal information safe.