#USA #Fraud Prevention #Pierre #Gift Card Fraud #Marty Jackley

Nationwide Campaign Launched to Combat Gift Card Fraud

The holiday season often brings joy and happiness, but it also creates a prime opportunity for scammers to deceive unsuspecting consumers. In response, the Honorable Marty Jackley, Attorney General of South Dakota, has partnered with Attorneys General from 13 other states to launch a public service announcement (PSA) campaign aimed at protecting consumers from the growing threat of gift card scams.

Background of the Initiative

On December 22, 2025, AG Jackley announced the PSA campaign, made possible by the Gift Card Fraud Prevention Alliance. As millions of Americans prepare to redeem the gift cards they receive during holidays, this initiative addresses the alarming increase in scams targeting these popular payment methods. “This is a time when families and friends exchange gifts, and unfortunately, that's when fraudsters strike the hardest,” said AG Jackley.

Key Messages of the PSA Campaign

The PSAs will start airing on December 26, 2025, and will run until January 31, 2026. The messages will be unified and consistent across participating states, assuring the public that gift cards are safe when used responsibly. However, they caution consumers to remain vigilant against scams that exploit this gift-giving practice.

The campaign will reveal common tactics used by fraudsters, including impersonating trustworthy organizations to pressure victims into purchasing gift cards. Consumers will receive tips on how to safely use gift cards and will be encouraged to report any instances of fraud directly to their respective state attorney general offices. AG Jackley stressed, “Always purchase gift cards from reputable businesses. Ensure the card appears intact, and be aware of any fees or expiration dates.”

Fraud Prevention Strategies

Attorney General Jackley and other officials highlighted that government agencies and reputable companies will never demand payment via gift cards. This is a critical red flag that consumers should look out for. Additionally, any request for immediate action or secrecy should raise suspicion.

“This campaign aims to send a strong message to the criminals committing gift card fraud,” said Lisa LaBruno, Executive Director of the RILA Communities Foundation, which oversees the Gift Card Fraud Prevention Alliance. “By joining forces, we can provide consumers with necessary tools and information to protect themselves and their loved ones from fraud.”

Consumers must remain informed to recognize and evade scams. Reports of fraud are vital for tracking criminal activities and building stronger cases against those perpetrating these scams. Therefore, anyone who suspects they’ve been targeted should immediately reach out to the South Dakota Attorney General’s Office or an equivalent in their state.

Participating Attorneys General

The collaborative nature of this initiative brings together legal officials from various states, reinforcing the campaign's urgency and reach. Notable participants include AGs Tim Griffin from Arkansas, Kathy Jennings from Delaware, Brian L. Schwalb from the District of Columbia, Chris Carr from Georgia, and several others from various states across the nation.

Conclusion

With the holiday season upon us, staying alert and educated about potential scams is more critical than ever. The campaigns led by Attorney General Jackley and his counterparts are an essential step in safeguarding consumers against fraud. For more information about this initiative and to access resources on preventing gift card fraud, consumers are urged to visit the Gift Card Fraud Prevention Alliance website or their state attorney general’s official page. This initiative is a timely reminder that in the fight against fraud, knowledge and awareness are vital weapons.