New Online Resource Center to Combat Gift Card Scams Launched Just in Time for Holidays

FightCybercrime Launches Online Resource Center

In a timely initiative aimed at safeguarding consumers during the holiday season, FightCybercrime, a nonprofit focused on combating online fraud, has officially launched an online resource center dedicated to educating and empowering individuals against the rising threats of gift card scams. With the holiday season being a focal point for such scams, particularly targeting vulnerable populations like the elderly, this resource center aims to educate families on how to recognize and avoid common fraud tactics.

Understanding the Emergency of Gift Card Scams

According to a recent report from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), Americans lost over $215 million in 2023 alone due to gift card scams. However, this figure may not accurately reflect the true scale of the problem because many victims do not report these scams, leading to significant underreporting of the issue.

Ally Armeson, Executive Director of FightCybercrime, explains that scammers thrive during the holiday season, knowing that many families exchange gift cards. "The unfortunate reality is that these scammers often exploit the trust of their victims, especially the elderly who may be more susceptible to pressure tactics," she stated.

Empowering Millennials and Gen Z

The newly established online resource center aims primarily at Millennials and Gen Z adults, encouraging them to engage in conversations with their older family members about the risks associated with gift cards. This generation, often more tech-savvy, can play an essential role in the fight against these scams by educating their parents and grandparents.

In detail, the resource center provides a wealth of information, including common types of scams like the