Buyer Beware: New scam involves fraudulent Walmart gift cards in Palm Beach County
The Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office (PBSO) said scammers are getting crafty and placing paper photo copy of a gift card over legitimate Walmart gift cards. When the fake barcode is scanned the funds are placed onto the illegitimate photo copied card rending the real gift card valueless. (Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office)
WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (CBS12) — Investigators are warning residents about a new scam that involves Walmart gift cards.
The Palm Beach County Sheriff's Office said scammers are getting crafty and placing a paper photo copy of a gift card over legitimate Walmart gift cards. When the fake barcode is scanned the funds are placed onto the illegitimate photo copied card, rendering the real gift card valueless.
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Investigators said the fraud is undetectable to the human eye.
However, there are ways you can spot a fake. The sheriff's office said when purchasing a Walmart gift card, patrons should run their finger over the barcode. This is important because the barcode should feel raised and not flat. If the barcode is smooth and flat, then it could be a fake.
The sheriff's office said if you fall victim to the scam to call the the non-emergency number 561-688-3400 or contact your nearest law enforcement agency.