Where to Buy Gift Cards

Recommended places to purchase gift cards:

1. Directly from the retailer - The safest option
2. Major grocery stores and pharmacies - Reputable locations
3. Bank websites - For network-branded cards
4. Authorized retailers - Legitimate authorized resellers

Caution: Be careful with classified ads or social media marketplaces.

What to Look for When Buying

Before purchasing a physical gift card, check for:

• Examine packaging for tears or punctures
• Check if PIN area has been scratched off
• Verify protective stickers are intact
• Look at magnetic strip for damage
• Compare to other cards for irregularities
• Check expiration date if applicable

Protecting Physical Gift Cards

Keep your physical cards secure:

• Treat gift cards like cash
• Take photos of front and back
• Keep purchase receipts
• Register card if available
• Use cards promptly

Protecting Digital Gift Cards

Secure your digital cards:

• Save gift card emails securely
• Take screenshots of information
• Don't forward gift card emails
• Avoid public Wi-Fi for access
• Use secure wallet apps

Recognizing Gift Card Scams

Be aware of common scams:

• Payment scams - Anyone demanding gift card payment is likely a scammer
• Card draining - Scammers record numbers in-store
• Fake giveaways - "Free" cards requiring personal information
• Email phishing - Fake emails about card issues
• Verification calls - Calls claiming to verify information