AARP Pennsylvania Warns About Surge in Gift Card Scams

Harrisburg, PA – Gift cards may be a convenient way to celebrate birthdays, holidays or special occasions, but scammers are increasingly using them as a tool to steal money from unsuspecting consumers. AARP Pennsylvania is raising awareness about this fast-growing fraud tactic that cost Americans over $217 million in 2023 alone, according to the Federal Trade Commission.

Scammers either demand gift cards as payment or drain the balance off legitimate cards through technical or physical theft. Often posing as government agents, sweepstakes representatives, or even family members, con artists pressure people to purchase cards and share the serial number and PIN — leaving them with no way to recover the funds.

"Gift card scams are particularly cruel because they exploit people’s generosity and trust," said Mary Bach, AARP Pennsylvania Volunteer and Chair of the Consumer Issues Task Force. "We want people to understand that no legitimate business or agency will ever request gift card payment. Being informed is the first step to protecting your hard-earned money."

A recent AARP survey shows that more than a third of U.S. adults have been targeted by scammers seeking gift card payments. In addition, AARP’s 2024 study Holiday Fraud: Scammers Continue to Steal Holiday Cheer revealed that one in four people have either given or received a gift card that had no funds left on it.

"Criminals are counting on us to act fast and not question their urgency," said David Kalinoski, AARP Pennsylvania Associate State Director. "Whether it's a call from someone claiming to be your boss, a grandchild in trouble, or a tech support representative warning about a virus — always take a step back. Verify independently before acting."

To reduce your risk, buy gift cards directly from the issuing retailer and avoid those on open racks. Always keep your receipts and check the balance before leaving the store. Never use gift cards as a form of payment, and be wary of unsolicited emails or texts offering gift card giveaways.

Report scams to local law enforcement. For help from AARP, call 1-877-908-3360 or visit the AARP Pennsylvania Fraud Resource Page at aarp.org/pafraud.