Police Warn Retailers of Gift Card Scam

Some people get into the holiday spirit when this time of year rolls around.

For others, they see the season as an opportunity to take advantage of others.

State College police are warning local retailers of a gift card scam that could see increased use with the holiday season approaching.

According a press release, the scammers are purchasing large amounts of gift cards using cloned credit cards with stolen data to purchase the gift cards. 

The State College Police Department has investigated “several cases” of this fraud where gift cards amounting to between $500 and $2000 are purchased using one or multiple credit cards. 

The press release warns retailers to be wary of customers with multiple credit credit cards in their possession when purchasing gift cards.

“It is common for some of the cards presented by the customer be declined,” police said.

“If retailers encounter this type of activity and become suspicious, they should obtain as much information as possible, including physical description of the suspect(s), vehicle description, license plate number and direction of travel.”