| Ask the cashier to give you a card that is not on display but kept behind the counter. They're less likely to have been tampered with. |
| Look for gift cards with concealed security codes or protective sleeves. Check both sides of the card for signs of tampering. |
| Immediately after purchasing the card, ask the cashier to test it and show you the balance. Make sure it matches the balance listed on the receipt. |
| Save the original receipt or give it to the recipient. Many retailers will replace drained cards if you can show proof of purchase. |
| Register cards on store Web sites, if possible. That can make it easier to replace the card in case of fraud. |
| Use caution when buying gift cards from online auction sites. There's often no way to ensure that the cards are valid and have the listed value. |
The ABCs
Of Gift-Card Safety
Consumers can guard against gift-card fraud with a few small steps.
By Elizabeth Woyke
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