No, that’s not your boss asking you to buy gift cards

While the gift-giving holidays are over, scammers still want gift card money. Some scammers might even reach out by pretending to be your boss and asking you to buy gift cards for them. But it’s a scam. Here’s how to spot and avoid it.

The scene often starts with an unexpected text, email, or a call from your “boss” asking for an “urgent favor.” (That emergency? Not real. That person? Not your boss.) They tell you to go to the store, buy gift cards, and send them the numbers on the back. They might even ask for “Google certificates.” They really mean gift cards, but they use different words hoping you’ll engage to find out more.

Even if your “boss” says they need the cards for a company event, slow down and make sure it’s not a scammer trying to steal the money you put on the gift cards. If you’re in this situation, here’s how to avoid this scam:

• Check with your boss first. Use a number or email you know is real — don’t respond to the number or email you were contacted from.
• Know that only scammers will ask for gift card numbers and the PIN. The combination lets scammers get any money you put on gift cards — even if they don’t physically have the card. So don’t give out those numbers or send photos of the card.

And if you’re buying gift cards for friends and family:

• Always keep copies of the gift card and store receipt (a quick photo on your phone will work). This will help you report issues to the gift card company. The sooner you report, the better chance you’ll get your money back. You can also report fraud to the FTC.