PENNSYLVANIA — Attorney General Michelle Henry has cautioned residents about a new scam targeting holiday shoppers who purchase gift cards. The scam, known as “card draining,” is reportedly on the rise across the state and nationwide.
In this scam, fraudsters record information from un-purchased gift cards, including card and pin numbers. When an unsuspecting consumer purchases the compromised card, the scammer immediately uses the recorded details to make purchases, leaving the buyer with an empty gift card.
Over one hundred instances of this scam have been reported at an eastern Pennsylvania grocery store, and similar incidents are occurring elsewhere in the state and country.
“The holidays present additional opportunities for scammers to deceive and steal from consumers who choose gift cards as presents for loved ones,” said Attorney General Henry. “Be sure to take a careful look at the cards you purchase and keep your receipts, just in case.”
To protect yourself from becoming a victim, the Attorney General’s office recommends the following:
- Ensure the gift card is sealed and the protective cover and tape covering the pin is intact.
- Check that the gift card does not appear to have been tampered with.
- Keep the store receipt in case the gift card you are purchasing is found to have been compromised.
- If a purchased gift card is found to be compromised, report it immediately to the gift card company to request a freeze on the card and a refund.
Consumers who believe they may have fallen victim to this scam or have any questions can submit a complaint with the Office of Attorney General’s Bureau of Consumer Protection.
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