
Privacy and security
Protecting your privacy in our digital world
Learn key privacy questions to ask and practical tips to safeguard your personal information.
Read articleAmanda Lee
Senior Program Manager, Tech for Good™ & TELUS Wise®
As the holiday cheer fades and folks settle into the new year, many are left puzzled by an unexpected issue: gift cards with missing balances. If you've found yourself in this frustrating situation, you're not alone. This post-holiday phenomenon, known as "gift card draining," has become an increasingly common problem.
Gift card draining occurs when scammers steal the balance from legitimate gift cards before the intended recipient can use them. This sophisticated form of theft has seen a surge, leaving many holiday gift recipients disappointed and confused.
Scammers employ various tactics:
If you've discovered your holiday gift card has an unexpected zero balance:
While it might be too late for your drained holiday gift card, here are tips to protect future ones:
While gift card draining is a concerning trend, being informed and cautious can significantly reduce risks. As we move past the holiday season, remember these tips for any gift cards you receive throughout the year. If you've been a victim of gift card draining, don't be embarrassed – it can happen to anyone. The most important step is to report it and take action quickly. Staying vigilant and informed is key.
Learn key privacy questions to ask and practical tips to safeguard your personal information.
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