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Losing money to a gift card scam is a frustrating experience. Right now, you are likely focused on one thing: getting your money back. Although it is very difficult to get your money back after a scam, particularly with gift cards, there are things you can do to increase your chances of recouping your losses.

In responding to the loss or theft of money, time is of the essence. This means you have one thing to do right now: 

  • Contact the company that issued the gift card as soon as possible.  Tell them it was used in a scam and ask them to refund your money. Keep the gift card and receipt as a record. When you contact them:
    • Be sure to use an official contact method, such as the phone number listed on the back of the gift card.
  • If you paid by credit card, contact the credit card company and let them know what happened. They may be able to help you get your money back.

The next steps you need to take will vary depending on your personal situation. We have outlined some important ways you can maintain stability after the loss or theft of your money:

  • Get a clear view of your finances and any upcoming payments. Will you be able to pay your bills?
  • Beware of scammers who promise to get your money back! Scammers will often contact you via phone, email, or even social media after you’ve already lost money and make promises to retrieve your funds, but only if you pay an up–front fee first.  Learn more about these scams.

 Protect yourself:

  • Be cautious when purchasing gift cards:
    • Don’t buy a card that indicates tampering has occurred.
    • Try to buy cards from behind the counter
    • If possible, purchase an electronic gift card from the company’s website
    • Pay by credit card

Remember, if you are asked to pay by gift card, it is usually a scam. Scammers often ask for gift cards by posing as:

  • Utility company
  • Charitable organization
  • Lottery company
  • Government agency (Social Security Office, IRS)
  • Law enforcement
  • A romantic interest
  • A family member having an emergency

 

How to recognize and prevent future incidents:

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Warn others (report a scam)

Good job taking control of the situation! We recommend taking a few moments to report the scam to the BBB, which can help us fight fraud. If you haven’t already, please consider reporting the incident you encountered to BBB Scam TrackerSM, our prevention and reporting platform.

 

Reporting the scam to the proper channels can help law enforcement shut down scam operations that prey on others; BBB shares its data with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). Scam submissions are published on BBB Scam TrackerSM, which enables the public to search the reports and determine whether they are being targeted. BBB Scam TrackerSM reports are also used to publish timely research and consumer education resources. Report your scam incident to BBB Scam TrackerSM. 

Avoid future scams (learn how)

Research indicates that possessing knowledge about scams and scam tactics can help people spot and avoid scams that will inevitably target them. The unfortunate truth is that scammers will always try to steal data, money, and important information from people.

 

Even when scammers are caught, others will replace them. The best defense, then, is to understand what a scam looks like and how to respond. Protect yourself and your loved ones by learning more about scam types and tactics by visiting BBB’s Scam Prevention Guide.