Holiday season brings gift card scams

BALTIMORE - When it comes to buying for the most difficult people on your list, gift cards are the way to go.  In 2010, the National Retail Federation estimated people would spend more than $24-billion on gift cards and scammers want a piece of that cash.

Both the Internet Crime Complaint Center and the Better Business Bureau of Greater Maryland are warning shoppers about the pitfalls of gift card scams, saying this time of year is prime season. 

The BBB says you should be especially cautious if you're buying cards off those big racks.  In some situations, CEO Angie Barnett, says scammers are able to write down or scan the PIN numbers for those cards and use the balance on the web to burn the cards down to zero.  To protect yourself Barnett says your best bet is to purchase cards that are kept behind the counter if that's an option.

In addition, before you buy a gift card, experts say you should check for signs of tampering.  If the PIN number has been uncovered, report the issue to store management.

Barnett also says you should use caution if you're shopping for gift cards on the internet, especially on sites that offer discount or traded cards.  If a site is advertising gift cards for sale at a fraction of their value, Barnett says that's a red flag.  She believes it's best to deal directly with retailers when buying gift cards.  That way if there's a problem you will have a receipt of purchase and can return to the store to speak with someone about the issue.