Coordinated Efforts to Combat Gift Card Scams by Attorneys General Nationwide

Protecting Consumers: The Fight Against Gift Card Scams

As the holiday season approaches, millions of Americans are expected to redeem gift cards, making this time a prime opportunity for scammers. In response to the rising threat of gift card fraud, Kentucky Attorney General Russell Coleman has joined forces with attorneys general from 13 other states to launch a public service announcement (PSA) campaign aimed at educating the public on how to recognize and report gift card scams. This initiative underscores a critical collaboration among state attorneys general to safeguard consumers as they navigate the holiday shopping frenzy.

The PSA campaign, funded by the Gift Card Fraud Prevention Alliance, is set to run from December 26, 2025, through January 31, 2026. It sends a clear and unified message: while gift cards themselves are secure means of payment, consumers must remain vigilant against fraudsters who exploit the holiday season to deceive unsuspecting individuals. The campaign is not just about spreading awareness; it encourages consumers to report any incidents of gift card fraud directly to their state attorney general's office.

Understanding Gift Card Scams

Gift card scams often involve fraudsters impersonating trusted organizations, including government agencies and reputable companies. They pressure victims to purchase gift cards and share the codes, which can lead to significant financial loss and emotional distress. Educating consumers about how these scams operate is vital in mitigating their impact.

Attorney General Coleman has emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts to combat organized retail crime that fuels these frauds, stating: "Organized retail crime brings dangerous criminals into our communities and drives up prices for Kentuckians. We've established a new unit in collaboration with law enforcement, prosecutors, and retailers to tackle this issue head-on, sending a strong message that Kentucky is no longer a safe haven for these criminals."

In addition to AG Coleman, participating attorneys general in this initiative include those from Arkansas, Delaware, Michigan, the District of Columbia, Nevada, Georgia, Oregon, Illinois, Pennsylvania, Iowa, South Dakota, Kansas, and Washington. Together, they share a unified commitment to protecting consumers across their states.

The President of the Kentucky Retail Federation, Tod Griffin, highlighted that retail organizations are continuously innovating methods to prevent gift card fraud and work closely with law enforcement. He praised AG Coleman's leadership and dedication to keeping gift cards safe.

A Call to Action

Lisa LaBruno, Executive Director of the RILA Communities Foundation, which leads the Gift Card Fraud Prevention Alliance, advocated for these collective efforts, stating, "It takes a village to combat gift card fraud. By joining forces, we're not only sending a powerful message to criminals but providing consumers with essential tools to protect themselves and their loved ones."

As part of the campaign, consumers are reminded that government entities and reputable companies will never demand payment via gift cards. Requests for swift action or secrecy are significant red flags that potential scams may be at play. Additionally, consumers should be aware that sharing gift card information—like codes and PIN numbers—can result in irreversible loss of funds.

If you or someone you know has fallen victim to a gift card scam, it is imperative to report the incident to the Kentucky Attorney General's Office or the appropriate office in your state. Every report aids in tracking criminal activities and building stronger cases against the networks perpetuating these scams.

For more information about the PSA campaign and resources regarding gift card fraud prevention, visit the Gift Card Fraud Prevention Alliance's website or your state attorney general's official page. Stay informed, stay vigilant, and protect yourself from these deceptive practices.

Conclusion

As the lines between legitimate transactions and scams begin to blur, continuous education and vigilance are crucial for consumers. This combined effort by state attorneys general represents a formidable barrier against gift card fraud, ensuring that while the joy of gift-giving remains, the associated risks are mitigated as much as possible. Make informed decisions during this holiday season and keep the gift of safety at the forefront of your festivities.