Understanding the Scam: Fake Barcodes on Gift Cards

Scammers in stores have started placing fake barcodes over the real ones on the back of gift cards. When a cashier scans the card at checkout, the money goes to the scammer’s account instead of loading onto your gift card, leaving you with a zero balance. Federal Bureau of Investigation

Signs of Tampering to Watch For

Barcode sticker alerts: Scammers often use an overlay sticker, run your finger over the barcode area to check for layers.
Mismatch in barcode numbers: The barcode number visible through the packaging window should match the number printed on the packaging itself.
Packaging red flags: Avoid cards with ripped, wrinkled, bent, or resealed packaging.
Avoid the front-most card: Opt for cards from the middle or back of the rack—they tend to be less handled and safer—though still inspect them thoroughly.
Point of sale check: When the cashier scans the card, confirm the correct brand appears on the screen.
Check PIN and security areas: Look for scratches, peeled-off layers, exposed PIN codes, or misalignment in printing.
Physical irregularities: Feel for unusual thickness or texture, which may indicate tampering.
If anything seems off, choose a different card. Report any suspicious-looking card to store staff immediately.

Stay alert out there! Together, we can keep our church family safe.

What to Do If a Scam Hits Home

Report it to the gift card retailer and the store where the purchase occurred.

File an official complaint with the FTC at reportfraud.ftc.gov and the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3.gov).