Gift card scams are exploding out of control and aren’t taking a break after the holidays.

Scammers are increasingly finding that gift cards are an easy way to steal money from innocent victims either responding to phone calls or emails. Older adults are favorite targets.

Typically, the caller suggests that a person buy a card and share the number with them to pay for any number of situations, from a relative desperately in need of financial help or to pay taxes. They then ask the purchaser to share the card number with them and use it to steal the money instead of spending it for the fake emergency.

Best Buy is being proactive about spreading this warning in cooperation with AARP and the National Association of Attorneys General. Please watch Best Buy’s PSA Video and a CBS This Morning News story to learn more.