Police Scotland issues warning on Gift Card scams

We would like to raise awareness of Gift Card scams.

Typically, the victim receives a call, text or email demanding an urgent payment by purchasing gift cards/vouchers from reputable organisations or high street retailers.

Fraudsters may claim to represent organisations or employers.

Following the purchase, the victim is asked to provide the gift card code to the fraudster who then either sells the codes on, or purchases high-value products, at the expense of the victim.

The fraudster does not require to have physical control over the card/voucher.

Employees may also receive urgent emails purporting to be from management asking them to purchase gift cards on their behalf.

A legitimate employer will not ask you to handle company business through gift card purchases.

• No reputable organisation would ask for payment of a bill or debt using vouchers or gift cards.

• Never reveal the codes on vouchers or gift cards you have purchased apart from entering them on official websites as full or part payment for goods or services.

• Take a moment to think if the offer sounds too good to be true.

• Be wary of any texts or emails you receive, even if it appears to come from an organisation you know and trust.

• Don’t follow links in text messages or phone any numbers provided within the message.

Trading Standards Scam Share Bulletin 👉http://ow.ly/1F6650GRgsm

Cyber Scotland Bulletin 👉http://ow.ly/tlAW50GRgsl

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davepickering

Edinburgh reporter and photographer