Gift Card Scams Are Surging: How to Spot and Stop Them
Gift Card Scams Are Still on the Rise: What the Latest Alert Means for You If you’ve ever been told to buy a gift card to pay a bill, a fine, or even to help a romantic partner, you were likely being scammed. Gift card scams are one of the most persistent frauds in the United States, and they show no sign of slowing down. In December 2025, District of Columbia Attorney General Brian Schwalb issued a fresh alert warning residents about this exact tactic. While the alert is aimed at Washington, D.C., the advice applies to anyone, anywhere who uses gift cards. ...