In today’s corporate world, rewarding employees is key to increasing employment, and improving productivity. One popular way companies reward their employees is through corporate paid gift cards. These gift cards are flexible, convenient, and show appreciation.
Nowadays, there are increasing concerns about scams involving these cards. This article explores the growing concerns of scams, and how businesses can protect themselves and their employees.
How Do Gift Card Scams Work?
Scammers will say almost anything to get you to buy gift cards such as Google Play, Apple, or Amazon cards, and provide them with the card number and PIN codes. Here are some common tactics they use.
Creating a Sense of Urgency
Scammers will create a sense of urgency for you. This urgency is designed to prevent you from thinking clearly or consulting with someone you trust.
Specifying the Gift Card to Purchase
They may require you to buy a particular type of gift card, such as an eBay, Google Play, Target, or Apple gift card. They might even specify where to buy it, often sending you to stores like Walmart, Target, CVS, or Walgreens.
Requesting the Gift Card Number and PIN
The scammer will ask for the card number and PIN on the back of the card. These details allow them to access the money loaded onto the card, even if you still have the physical card.
Common Types of Gift Card Scams
Gift card scams have become an increasingly common threat to businesses and their employees. Here are the common types of Scams.
Phishing Scams: Scammers often use phishing emails or messages to trick employees into revealing gift card information. These messages may appear to come from a trusted source, such as a company executive or HR department, and request the recipient to purchase gift cards and send the codes.
Fake Websites: Scammers create fake websites similar to legitimate websites or service providers. When employees attempt to redeem their gift cards on these sites, the scammers capture the card information and use it for fraudulent purposes.
Physical Theft: Gift cards can be physically stolen from workplaces or mail. Scammers may block mail containing gift cards or even steal cards from office environments.
Card Tampering: In some cases, scammers tamper with gift cards. They copy the card numbers and wait until the cards are activated by legitimate purchasers. Once activated, the scammers empty the card balance.
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Laura Kemmis is a passionate trendsetter and reviewer, dedicated to researching the latest scams and frauds while sharing her insights with the world. She provides valuable information to keep her audience aware and informed about the latest scams. Additionally, Laura discovers and analyzes trends in fashion, technology, and lifestyle, offering a fresh and honest perspective in her reviews.
