Gift Card Fraud Prevention Alliance Launches National PSA Campaign to Combat Holiday Gift Card Fraud
Today Show segment highlights how the industry is collaborating to keep gift cards safe.
Washington, D.C. — The Gift Card Fraud Prevention Alliance (GCFPA) has launched a paid national public service announcement (PSA) campaign to help consumers avoid gift card fraud this holiday season. Gift cards are a safe and convenient gift option, but scams led by organized crime groups are out there trying to drain card funds and coerce individuals to purchase gift cards under false pretenses. The campaign aims to inform the public about common scams, provide tips for spotting card tampering, and encourage consumers to report fraud.
As part of this campaign, Lisa LaBruno, Executive Director, RILA Communities Foundation, and a leading voice in retail crime prevention, appeared on NBC’s Today Show this morning and shared insights and actionable advice with viewers across the country. Her appearance underscores the urgency of the issue and the GCFPA’s commitment to raising consumer awareness during the peak gift-giving season.
“Gift cards top holiday wish lists and are a safe and convenient gift to give, but scammers are also eager to cash in. Our mission is to help consumers spot and avoid fraud, so their gifts—and the season—stay safe. Retailers, gift card networks, and law enforcement are united to protect shoppers and stop criminals in their tracks,” said LaBruno.
Watch Our PSA Video Here
The PSA campaign will leverage a robust digital advertising strategy, including targeted ads on social media platforms and leading news websites. In addition, the campaign will include a significant media buy to maximize reach and impact. Educational materials will highlight:
- Inspecting gift card packaging for signs of tampering before purchasing
- Checking gift card balances only on official websites
- Never giving out gift card information to a stranger; and
- Urging consumers to report gift card fraud to local police, state Attorneys General Offices and the Federal Trade Commission
Protect Yourself This Holiday Season
Consumers are encouraged to follow the RILA Communities Foundation on LinkedIn and @ProtectMyGiftCard on Instagram for daily tips and updates throughout the campaign. They can also visit protectmygiftcard.com for additional resources. The GCFPA urges everyone to share these tips with friends and family to help prevent scams from ruining the holiday spirit.
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The Gift Card Fraud Prevention Alliance formed in 2024 and is part of the Retail Industry Leaders Association (RILA) Communities Foundation (RCF), a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, with a mission to promote, foster, and encourage the vibrancy of communities in which retailers operate by supporting efforts to advance economic health and public safety. RCF leads the GCFPA which was created to educate lawmakers and the public about gift card fraud, enhance collaboration among the private and public sectors to investigate criminal activity, and drive innovation to combat fraud.
Media Contact: Melissa Murdock [email protected]
