Beware of Rising Gift Card Scams: Tips to Stay Safe This Holiday Season

The FBI is warning that gift card scams are on the rise, with scammers using a "gift card draining" trick to steal money before it can be used. Reports of gift card scams have increased by 50% this year, totaling over $210 million in losses. To avoid falling victim, consumers are advised to check for tampering on gift cards, avoid buying cards with damaged packaging, and register their gift cards if possible. If a gift card has been tampered with, there is little that can be done to recover the lost funds. Buying gift cards from behind the counter or gifting cash are alternative ways to protect oneself.