Gift-Card Numbers Missing or Smudged? — Spot & Report Tampered Cards

Peel back the foil, and—uh-oh—the last eight digits are gone, or the barcode looks like it’s been reheated. Tampering is on the rise in 2025, but you can protect yourself. Here’s how to inspect a card in under 30 seconds before you pay, plus what to do if you discover foul play after purchase.

30-Second In-Store Inspection

1. Match barcodes. The last four digits on the card back must match the receipt and the printed sleeve.
2. Check foil edges. Re-sealed foil shows uneven glue or heat waves.
3. Look for serial-number sticker. Missing sticker = automatic reject.

After-Purchase Red Flags

• $0 balance immediately after activation.
• Transactions recorded before you left the store.
• Foil strip already peeled.

What to Do if You’ve Been Hit

1. Freeze the card via IVR option 2.
2. Open a fraud case (option 4).
3. Email photos and receipt. Most refunds arrive in 7–10 days.

Independent guide linking to MyBalanceNow.