Rohnert Park Safety Officers are warning of a gift card scam that has reached the area. What happens is scammers take new un-purchased gift cards and either cut the serial number off the card or write down the gift card identification number. They put the new card back on the rack, and when a customer purchases and loads the gift card, they have access to that card online and steal the money from it. Several precautions are being listed for those purchasing gifts cards from stores like Target or Safeway.
Gift Card Safety Tips:
1. Check the packaging of gift cards before buying them.
2. Look for signs of tampering, such as the wrapping being torn or resealed, cut card, or stickers placed over the barcode or card number.
3. If you find a tampered gift card, report it to the store managers immediately
4. Choose a card from the back of the rack, as scammers often place their fraudulent cards at the front of the display.
5. Once you load a card, ask the cashier to scan it to verify the balance amount.
6. If you are a victim of the gift card scam, report it to the store (with your receipt) to receive their 1-800 hotline to request reimbursement. Most stores will NOT reimburse you directly.
7. Report gift card scams to your local law enforcement agencies to help educate the public and build evidence for crime cases.
Rohnert Park DPS’s non-emergency line can be reached at 707-584-2600 to report gift card incidents.
