ALTHOUGH often described as impersonal, gift cards are a great idea to purchase especially for people into video games.
So where can you buy such gift cards, particularly for Xbox players?
1
Where can you buy Xbox gift cards?
Xbox gift cards are sold at various online outlets.
The easiest place to buy them is directly from the Microsoft website.
They give you the option to buy gift cards that range from £10-£50.
Upon purchase, you’ll receive an email with a digital code that your gift recipient can use to buy popular games, add-ons, map packs and more.
You can similarly purchase digital gift cards from Amazon or you can purchase physical ones online from Currys, Argos, WHSmith and GAME.
Which shops sell Xbox gift cards?
If you prefer to purchase gift cards the traditional way and go into a store, Currys, Argos, WHSmith and GAME offer you the option.
However, be sure to check with your local retailer first as products can differ from store to store.
What are the dangers of gift cards?
While it’s often said that giving gift cards is “impersonal,” it turns out most people are just fine with that, as they remain incredibly popular with customers.
People enjoy the flexibility and convenience of gift cards.
Unfortunately, gift cards are prime targets for scammers and fraudsters, and gift card fraud can leave merchants vulnerable to damaging chargebacks from the credit cards that were originally used to purchase them.
And it seems card fraud is only getting worse.
COVID-19 has unfortunately forced many companies out of business, and pushed others into primarily online roles.
And since we’ve been restricted in visiting stores in person, customers have spent more and more of their time shopping online.
While eCommerce was already on the rise before 2020, the lockdowns around the world turned that growth into an explosion.
Are there any Xbox gift card scams to watch out for?
There are ways to remain smart about your gift card purchases online.
Hang Up on Fake Callers
No reputable company nor government agency (including the IRS) will ever demand payment with gift cards. If someone claims to be from the IRS, hang up. (Don’t believe emails either.)
2. Balance Check in Private
If someone asks to listen as you call to confirm the balance of a gift card, it is likely a scam.
3. Inspect Gift Card Packaging
If the packaging looks tampered with or the PIN is revealed, turn the gift card into the cashier and pick a different card.
4. Check the Activation Receipt
Be sure the gift card number listed on the activation receipt matches the gift card you receive. Alert the manager if it’s not a match.
5. Only Buy from Reputable Resellers
Only buy discount gift cards from a gift card reseller that has customer service and will give you a money-back guarantee on purchases.
6. Save Activation Receipt
Whenever you buy a gift card, save the purchase and activation receipt until the gift card is redeemed.
