Gift card scam: what to do if you already gave the numbers

Why speed matters

Scammers drain gift cards fast. But if any money is still on the card, the company may be able to freeze it. That's why the first call is to the card company, not the police. Have the cards in front of you when you call.

If you can't find the cards, check your phone. Many scammers ask for a photo of the back of the card, so the numbers may be in your sent texts or photos.

Gift card company fraud numbers

Call the company named on the card, not the store where you bought it. These numbers were checked in October 2026.

• Amazon: 1-888-280-4331
• Apple and iTunes: 1-800-275-2273
• Best Buy: 1-888-237-8289
• Target: 1-800-544-2943
• Walmart: 1-888-537-5503
• Visa gift cards: 1-800-847-2911
• Vanilla: 1-833-322-6760
• American Express gift cards: 1-877-297-4438
• Google Play, eBay, Steam and other brands: See the FTC's list at ftc.gov/giftcards, or use the number printed on the back of the card.

Free recovery checklist

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What to say when you call

Your checklist after the call

1. Keep the cards and receipts

   The FTC says to hold on to both. Put them in an envelope with today's date.

2. Write down each card number and amount

   List them in one place with the case number from each company.

3. Report to the FTC

   Go to ReportFraud.ftc.gov or call 1-877-382-4357. Include the card brand, card numbers, amounts, and how the scammer contacted you.

4. Tell the store where you bought them

   Some stores want to know, especially if a cashier saw you buying many cards. It helps them warn the next person.

5. If you're 60 or older

   Call the National Elder Fraud Hotline at 1-833-372-8311, Monday to Friday, 10am to 6pm Eastern, for help with reports.

6. If the scammer had your bank details or computer

   Call your bank too, and see our remote access steps.

Who tells people to pay with gift cards

The FTC is blunt: only scammers tell you to buy a gift card to pay them. The people asking can sound very convincing. The FTC lists people pretending to be:

• The IRS, Social Security, or the FTC
• Tech support from Microsoft or Apple
• A grandchild or other family member in an emergency
• A prize or sweepstakes company
• Your power or water company
• Someone you met online who says they love you

Honest odds

Refunds are not guaranteed, and many cards are emptied within minutes. Some people do get money back when there's still a balance to freeze. You lose nothing by calling, and your report helps the company track the scammers. Then let it go. Scams fool careful, smart people every day.

Questions people ask