AGs Seek to Slam the Brakes on Gift-Card Scams

Gift cards are big business, which naturally means they are also a popular target of criminals. To help combat such fraud this holiday season, Attorneys General from 14 states will soon launch a public service announcement (PSA) campaign aimed at stemming the spread of such scams.

The PSAs, slated to run Dec. 26 through Jan. 31 of next year (the peak period for post-holiday redemptions of such cards) will highlight common criminal tactics, offer tips for safe gift card usage and encourage the public to immediately report any incidents of suspected fraud to their respective state attorney general offices. (The alliance did not specify specific media they will use to disseminate their message.)

“By joining forces with AGs, the top legal and consumer protection officer in each state, we’re sending a powerful message to the criminals committing gift card fraud and giving consumers tools to protect themselves and loved ones,” said Lisa LaBruno, Executive Director of the RILA Communities Foundation, which leads the Gift Card Fraud Prevention Alliance. “It takes a village to combat gift card fraud, and it’s critical to get the word out so consumers know about these scams and how to avoid them.”

Gift card scams often involve fraudsters impersonating trusted organizations or individuals and pressuring victims to purchase gift cards and share the codes. These schemes can result in significant financial loss and emotional distress for consumers.

Click here to watch one of the PSA’s video messages and here for the alliance’s website dedicated to detailing the causes of gift-card fraud and ways to prevent them.