Gift card scams surge past $1 million prompting urgent warning from Consumer Protection

More than $1 million has been lost in scams involving gift card payments this year, triggering an urgent warning from Consumer Protection

WA ScamNet at Consumer Protection, previously saw scammers impersonating bosses or CEOs to pressure workers into buying gift cards, but the largest losses are now coming from romance scam victims who are coerced into buying large amounts of gift cards and providing the serial numbers in the belief they are helping someone they trust and love. 

In one case, a WA woman sent $77,000 worth of gift cards to a scammer posing as her overseas love-interest, despite staff at the point-of-sale warning her about the risk.

Another male victim in his late 70s lost around $50,000 in a similar scam. 

Data also shows losses to gift card scams have increased by 56 per cent compared to the whole of 2025.

Commissioner for Consumer Protection Trish Blake said these cases represent only part of the picture, with total losses likely higher due to victims being directed to use multiple payment methods.

“Consumer Protection has long-held agreements with major retailers to display prominent scam warnings and ensure staff are trained to question customers purchasing large quantities of gift cards,” Ms Blake said. 

“However, scam reports suggest that offenders are now coaching victims on what to say, instructing them to claim the cards are for a family member or special occasion. Victims are also directed to visit multiple stores, including smaller retailers, to avoid raising suspicion.”

Ms Blake urged retailers to ensure warning signs are clearly visible, staff remain alert, and customers are questioned when unusually large gift card purchases occur.  

“Retailers play a critical frontline role however recent spot checks by Consumer Protection officers have revealed that some stores are no longer displaying warning signage, despite the ongoing risk,” the Commissioner said.

In addition to romance scams, gift cards are often demanded by scammers impersonating family members, employers, businesses and Government departments, urging victims to purchase cards such as Apple iTunes, Google Play, and Amazon.

Investment scammers also use this tactic, falsely claiming gift cards are needed to pay fees, taxes or other charges.

Once the serial numbers are provided, the cards are quickly sold on secondary markets, leaving victims with little chance of recovering their money.

Consumers are urged to stay safe by remembering that no boss, business or government department will ask for gift card payments, and to treat any unexpected request – from a boss, family member or an online romantic partner – as suspicious until it can be confirmed in person.

Consumers who believe they have been scammed or been part of scam attempts can lodge a report with WA ScamNet at Consumer Protection via the website: www.scamnet.wa.gov.au, or by calling 1300 30 40 54 or emailing consumer@lgirs.wa.gov.au