Police are sending out the warning as you holiday shop about a nationwide scam that increases at this time of year called card draining.
If you’re buying a gift card as a present this holiday season, this scam is hitting stores right now.
How does it work?
At the store, the thieves will copy down the card’s numbers and pin codes and return it to the rack.
And then when you purchase the card and add money to it, the scammer will be able to steal that money remotely.
How can you protect yourself?
When you’re buying the gift card, check to make sure the packaging hasn’t been tampered with and that the gray strip on the back hasn’t been scratched off. Some criminals even cut the top of the card off. If you can discreetly peek inside the packaging without opening it, steer clear of those to be safe. And if you really want to be safe, buy a gift card online straight from the retailer’s website.
If you think your gift card was drained, take your receipt and the card to the retailer so you can make a report and they might be able to refund you some money.
"avoid it" - Google News
December 16, 2023 at 04:15AM
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Gift card scam explained, and how to avoid it - WBAL Radio
"avoid it" - Google News
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