How can you protect yourself from Gift Card scams?
07 July 2025
Gift cards are a fast and easy way to treat someone – but sadly, they’ve also become a popular target for fraud. Falling victim to a gift card scam can result in financial loss and frustration, especially when scammers use clever tricks to make their schemes look real. In this article, we’ll explain exactly what a gift card scam is, how to spot one, and what to do if you’ve been targeted. Stay informed and protect yourself.
What is a Gift Card scam?
A gift card scam is when a criminal tricks you into buying or handing over gift card details, often pretending to be someone you trust – like a company, government body, or even a family member. Once they have the card’s code or number, the money can be spent instantly, making it hard to trace or recover. These scams often happen over email, text, or phone, and are on the rise in the UK.
Recognising Gift Card scamming
Gift card scams can take many forms, so it's essential to stay alert. Here are some common examples to look out for:
- Fake tech support: You’re told there’s an issue with your computer and asked to pay with gift cards
- Impersonation of managers or family: Scammers pretend to be your boss or relative asking for an urgent favour
- Prize or lottery scams: You "win" a prize but must pay fees using gift cards to claim it
- Government threats: You're told you owe taxes or fines and must pay with gift cards
Be cautious if anyone insists on payment via gift card – no legitimate company or authority will ever ask for that. Always double-check requests, especially if they’re unexpected, urgent, or feel off.
How to report a Gift Card scam?
If you think you've been targeted by a gift card scam, don’t stay silent. Report it immediately to help protect others and increase the chance of action. In the UK, you can report gift card fraud to Action Fraud – the national reporting centre for fraud and cybercrime.
You should also:
- Contact the retailer the gift card was purchased from
- Inform your bank if any personal or payment info was shared
- Spread awareness among friends and family to stop others falling victim
Want to explore safe and secure gift options? Discover our full range of gift cards for every occasion.
The best gift cards for teens
Looking for the best vouchers for young adults? Whether it’s for a birthday, a thank-you, or just because, gift cards for teens are a sure win. They’re fast, flexible, and fun to receive. With one of our digital or physical vouchers for teenagers, they get to choose exactly what they want. That means no wrong sizes, no guessing, and no disappointment.
Where can you use an one for all gift card
you can choose from over 200 different retailers, making it the ultimate gift for any occasion. Whether it’s fashion, food, travel, or tech, there’s something for everyone. That’s why this All-in-One Gift Card is such a winner.
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What is the best gift card to buy?
Looking for the best gift card for any occasion? Whether it’s a birthday, wedding, thank-you or a last-minute surprise, the right gift card offers flexibility, convenience and something everyone can enjoy. Explore our full range of gift cards to find the perfect match, or go straight for the top choice that works for all.
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