ATLANTA (WJBF) – With the holiday shopping season upon us, the FBI has raised alarms about the increasing prevalence of gift card scams. Investigators report sophisticated schemes where scammers manipulate gift card barcodes, transferring stolen funds directly from unsuspecting buyers to their accounts.
According to the FBI, scammers are placing counterfeit barcodes on genuine gift cards. When consumers purchase these cards and the cashier scans them, the cash is sent to the scammer's account instead of the intended gift card balance, often leaving the victim with nothing.
“Scammers are going to retailers where you see the big shelving with all the gift cards,” said FBI spokesperson Tony Thomas. “They are taking those gift cards and shopping the cards out of the store and taking them to where they are operating out of and scraping the foil and then taking the code of the gift card.”
Another tactic involves the manipulation of gift card pin codes. Scammers remove these codes from the back of the cards, rendering them useless for redemption and leaving buyers empty-handed.
The FBI suggests several protective measures for consumers buying gift cards this holiday season. One fundamental step is to examine the card thoroughly before purchase. Look out for any signs of tampering on the packaging, and verify whether the barcode on the card matches the number shown on the packaging.
Consistent with the FBI's recommendations, it is also wise to select gift cards from the middle or back of the display to minimize the risk of tampering. If any package appears ripped, wrinkled, or bent, it's best to avoid purchasing it altogether and report it to the authorities.
“When you notice any signs of damage, it’s a red flag,” warned Thomas. “Taking extra precautions can help you prevent falling victim to these scams.”
To report any incidents or seek assistance if you believe you've been victimized by a gift card scam, the FBI encourages individuals to file complaints at www.ic3.gov.
Scammers thrive during the holiday season, capitalizing on the rush and excitement of shopping. By staying alert and following these guidelines, consumers can safeguard their purchases and enjoy the gifting experience without the shadow of fraud hanging over them.
