How to Verify a Physical Gift Card

1. Check packaging: Look for signs of tampering such as tears or resealing
2. Examine the card: Authentic cards have clean printing and clear text
3. Check the PIN area: The scratch-off area should be intact
4. Verify at purchase: Have cashier verify card activation before leaving
5. Keep receipt: Always save your purchase receipt as proof

How to Verify Digital Gift Cards

1. Only purchase from official retailer websites or apps
2. Verify sender email address matches official domain
3. Check for proper formatting and branding
4. Confirm receipt in official account (e.g., Amazon account)
5. Report suspicious emails claiming to be gift cards

Safe Purchase Practices

• Buy from authorized sources: Official stores, websites, or authorized dealers
• Inspect before purchase: Check for tampering signs
• Keep receipts: Save all purchase documentation
• Register when possible: Register high-value cards for protection
• Use immediately: Don't let cards sit unused for long periods

Common Gift Card Scams

Be aware of these prevalent scams:

• Government impersonation: Scammers claiming to be from IRS/government requesting gift card payments
• Online marketplace fraud: Heavily discounted cards that are fake or already used
• Tech support scams: Fake tech support asking for gift cards as payment
• Employment scams: Job offers requiring gift card purchases
• Fake charities: Fraudulent organizations collecting gift card "donations"

Remember: Legitimate businesses and government agencies never request payment via gift cards.

How to Use Gift Cards Online (General Information)

Educational Guide Only: This is general information. Exact procedures vary by retailer.

Generally, using a gift card online involves:

1. Shopping on the retailer's official website
2. Proceeding to checkout
3. Selecting gift card as a payment option
4. Entering card details as prompted
5. Completing the purchase

Important Disclaimers:

• This is general educational information only
• Procedures vary significantly between retailers
• Always refer to the retailer's official help resources
• We cannot provide specific instructions for your situation
• Contact the retailer's customer service for accurate guidance

How to Check Gift Card Balance

Most gift cards offer several balance check methods:

• Visit retailer's website and use balance checker
• Call customer service number on card back
• Check at register when making purchase
• Use retailer's mobile app if available

Gift Card Won't Work

If your gift card isn't working:

1. Verify the card has been activated (check receipt)
2. Ensure you're entering correct card number and PIN
3. Check if card has expired
4. Verify you're using it at correct retailer
5. Contact retailer customer service with receipt

Lost or Stolen Gift Card

Steps to take if card is lost or stolen:

1. Immediately contact gift card issuer
2. Provide purchase receipt if available
3. Request replacement or balance transfer
4. File police report if high value
5. Check if your purchase method offers protection

Balance Discrepancy

If balance doesn't match expectations:

• Review all transactions in account history
• Check for unauthorized use
• Look for fees (inactivity, maintenance)
• Contact customer service with receipt
• Request transaction history