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Gift Card Scams and How You Can Avoid Them

August 2025

Gift cards are one of the UK’s most popular gifting options, especially at Christmas, birthdays and other celebrations. Unfortunately, scammers also know how popular they are. Gift card scams have become a growing form of fraud, targeting unsuspecting customers who may not even realise this type of scam exists.

At Voucher Express, we believe it’s important to raise awareness about gift card fraud so customers can protect themselves, their friends, and their families from becoming victims.

What

are Gift Card scams?

A gift card scam happens when a fraudster tricks someone into buying a gift card and sharing the details (such as the card number and PIN code). Once the scammer has these details, they can redeem the balance immediately — and the victim is left out of pocket.

Gift card number: A long number, usually 16–19 digits, though some retailers use alphanumeric codes (letters + numbers).
PIN code: A short 3–4 digit security number that verifies the gift card.

Once these details are handed over, the money is gone. Unlike credit card transactions, there are no protections or chargebacks, which is why scammers love using gift cards.

Why

are gift card scams so common?

Gift cards are like digital cash. They’re easy to buy, widely available, and can be redeemed instantly. For scammers, this makes them:

Untraceable – Once redeemed, funds are very difficult to track or recover.
Quick access to money – Scammers don’t need bank details; they just need the card code.
Easier than other fraud methods – There are fewer protections compared to debit/credit card fraud.

Once these details are handed over, the money is gone. Unlike credit card transactions, there are no protections or chargebacks, which is why scammers love using gift cards.

Common Types of Gift Card Scams

1. Fake Giveaways or Prize Draws

Fraudsters set up fake competitions or “investment opportunities.” Victims are told they’ve won a prize or stand to gain big returns - but first they must “contribute” or “verify” their identity by buying a gift card.

The victim buys a card, shares the code, and the scammer disappears with the funds.

2. Romance Scams

Scammers create fake dating or social media profiles to build trust with victims. Once emotions are involved, they claim to be in financial trouble and ask for help - usually in the form of a gift card.

Once the code is sent, the fraudster vanishes.

3. Tech Support & Impersonation Scams/span>

Some scammers pose as HMRC, banks, or even tech support companies. Victims are told they owe money, have won compensation, or need to pay a fee. The “payment” is demanded in gift cards.

How to spot a Gift Card Scam

To protect yourself, watch out for these red flags:

Unrealistic promises – If someone claims you’ll win a large payout or prize, be sceptical.
Requests for gift card payments – Legitimate companies, government departments, and banks will never ask you to pay with a gift card.
Urgency & pressure – Scammers push you to act quickly so you don’t have time to think.
Poor grammar & spelling – Many scam messages include spelling mistakes or awkward phrasing.
It feels “too good to be true” – If something sounds unrealistic, it usually is.

How to Protect Yourself and Others

Never share gift card numbers or PINs with anyone you don’t trust.
Question unusual requests, even if they appear to come from friends, family, or official organisations.
Buy gift cards only from trusted retailers, like Voucher Express.
Educate friends and family, especially older or vulnerable people, who are often targeted.
Report scams to Action Fraud or the relevant authorities if you’ve been targeted.

Final Thoughts

Gift card scams are unfortunately on the rise, but by knowing the warning signs and spreading awareness, you can protect yourself and others. Remember:

If someone asks you to pay with a gift card, it’s almost always a scam.
Once a gift card balance is gone, it can’t be refunded.
Stay cautious, stay informed, and help others do the same.

By sharing this information, you can help reduce the number of victims and make gift giving with genuine, trusted retailers safer for everyone.