How to Verify a Physical Gift Card

1. Inspect the packaging: Look for signs of tampering such as tears, resealing, or damage to the packaging.
2. Check security features: Many legitimate gift cards include security features like holograms, unique printing patterns, or special coatings.
3. Examine the card: Verify that the card itself appears professional with clean printing and no signs of alteration.
4. Check the PIN area: The scratch-off area covering the PIN or security code should be intact and show no signs of tampering.
5. Verify the card number: Ensure the card number on the packaging matches the number on the card itself (if visible).

How to Verify a Digital Gift Card

1. Check the sender: Digital gift cards should come from official retailer email addresses or domains.
2. Examine the email: Look for professional formatting, proper branding, and correct spelling/grammar.
3. Verify the redemption website: Only enter card information on the official retailer's website.
4. Check for secure connections: Ensure the website uses HTTPS (look for the padlock icon in your browser).
5. Contact the retailer: If in doubt, contact the retailer directly using contact information from their official website.

Safe Purchasing Practices

• Buy from authorized retailers: Purchase directly from the official store or website.
• Avoid secondary markets: Be extremely cautious with online marketplaces or classified ads selling gift cards.
• Select cards from secure displays: In stores, choose cards kept behind counters or in tamper-evident packaging.
• Keep receipts: Always save your purchase receipt as proof of activation and value.
• Register cards when possible: If the retailer offers registration, do so to protect your balance.
• Examine carefully: Inspect the card and packaging for signs of tampering before purchasing.

Recognizing Gift Card Scams

Be alert for these common gift card scams:

• Payment requests: Anyone requesting payment via gift cards is likely a scammer - legitimate businesses and government agencies never ask for payment in gift cards.
• Too-good-to-be-true discounts: Heavily discounted gift cards are often stolen or fraudulent.
• Fake websites: Scammers create lookalike websites to steal gift card information.
• Phone scams: Unsolicited callers claiming to be from government agencies, tech support, or utilities demanding gift cards as payment.
• "Verification" requests: Messages claiming to need your gift card number and PIN to "verify" or "activate" the card.

Step-by-Step Guide for Online Purchases

1. Verify the website: Ensure you're on the legitimate retailer's website before entering any gift card information.
2. Add items to cart: Select your desired items and proceed to checkout.
3. Choose payment method: Select "Gift Card" or "Gift Certificate" as your payment method.
4. Enter card details: Input your gift card number and PIN/security code as required.
5. Apply the gift card: Click "Apply" or "Redeem" to add the gift card value to your purchase.
6. Add additional payment if needed: If your purchase exceeds your gift card balance, you may need to add another payment method.
7. Complete your order: Review your order details and confirm your purchase.

My Gift Card Was Declined

Potential Solutions:

1. Verify that there's sufficient balance on the card
2. Confirm that the card is activated (if newly purchased)
3. Check if you're entering the correct card number and PIN
4. Verify that the retailer accepts the type of gift card you're using
5. Check if the card has expired or has inactivity fees that reduced the balance
6. Contact the gift card issuer for assistance

I Lost My Gift Card

Steps to Take:

1. Locate your purchase receipt with the card number and activation information
2. Contact the retailer or gift card issuer's customer service immediately
3. Provide your receipt information and request assistance
4. Ask if the card can be frozen and replaced
5. Follow the issuer's specific process for lost or stolen cards

Note that not all gift cards can be replaced if lost. Policies vary by issuer.