The Michigan Attorney General’s office is warning residents to be aware of gift card scams.
The awareness effort is part of Money Smart Week.
The Attorney General’s office says that no legitimate business or government agency will ever demand payment via gift card. Fraudsters often pose as police officers, utility workers, or even family members to trick people into sending money.
Common tactics used by scammers include:
Claiming your computer has a virus that needs a paid fix.
Threats to shut off power or water unless a “bill” is paid immediately with a gift card.
Asking for “fees” upfront before you can claim a prize.
Once a person shares the numbers and PIN from a gift card, the money is usually gone forever. These transactions cannot be reversed like a credit card charge.
Listeners are advised to be skeptical of any urgent request for money and to verify claims by calling companies back at their official phone numbers.
If you have already shared card details with a scammer, contact the gift card issuer immediately to see if the funds can be frozen. Victims should also file a report with the Federal Trade Commission and the Michigan Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Team.