Officers urge residents to inspect cards carefully as tampering incidents continue across the city.
Kingston Police are warning the public about ongoing gift card fraud incidents reported across the Kingston area.
Police say the scam involves offenders removing gift cards from store displays, copying or replacing barcode or card information, and returning the cards to store shelves. When a customer later buys and activates the card, the money is quickly transferred to the offender. Many people do not realize the card has been compromised until the recipient tries to use it.
Residents are encouraged to carefully inspect gift cards before purchasing them. Signs of tampering can include scratched or damaged PIN coverings, peeling or mismatched barcodes, or cards that are not sealed in protective packaging.
To reduce the risk, police suggest buying gift cards from behind the counter or locked displays when possible and keeping purchase receipts.
While these scams happen year-round, police say they are more common during the holiday season.
Anyone who believes they have been affected is asked to report it to Kingston Police by calling 613-549-4660, ext. 0, or through the online reporting tool.
Story by Alyssa Brush
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