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SCAM ALERT · MONEY
If someone asks you to pay with a gift card, it is a scam.
Photo: Tom Eppenberger Jr. / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)
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§ 1 · SCAMS
No government agency, utility or bank will ever ask you to pay with a gift card.
Photo: Tom Eppenberger Jr. / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)
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§ 2 · SCAMS
Fake IRS calls, power shutoffs, tech support and "Grandma, I'm in jail."
Photo: Tom Eppenberger Jr. / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)
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§ 3 · SCAMS
They want the card number and PIN, demand speed and tell you to keep it secret.
Photo: Tom Eppenberger Jr. / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)
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§ 4 · SCAMS
Call the card company right away using the number on the back. Keep the receipt.
Photo: Tom Eppenberger Jr. / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)
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§ 5 · SCAMS
File a free report at ReportFraud.ftc.gov and warn your family.
Photo: Tom Eppenberger Jr. / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)
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Warning signs, first-hour steps and how to protect older relatives, in our full guide.
Photo: Tom Eppenberger Jr. / Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.0)