A boss gift card scam works because the request feels urgent and helpful. The message may say the person is in a meeting, cannot talk, and needs codes quickly.
The safer move is simple: do not buy or send codes from the chat. Verify through a trusted work channel first.
Do this first
Next 5 minutes
- Do not buy or send codes from the chat. Verify through a trusted work channel, a known phone number, or in person before spending anything.
- If you have not bought cards yet, stop and verify through a trusted work channel.
- If you bought cards but did not send codes, keep the cards and report the suspicious request internally.
- If you sent codes, save screenshots, report it to your workplace, and contact the gift card provider immediately.
Then continue with the red flag and checklist below. If you already entered details or paid, open already-clicked help.
The red flag
The request combines urgency, secrecy, and gift card codes — especially if they say not to call or claim they are stuck in a meeting.
Why it works
People want to be helpful at work. Scammers use authority and time pressure so the victim acts before confirming the request.
Safer move
Do not buy or send codes from the chat. Verify through a trusted work channel, a known phone number, or in person before spending anything.
If you already clicked
- If you have not bought cards yet, stop and verify through a trusted work channel.
- If you bought cards but did not send codes, keep the cards and report the suspicious request internally.
- If you sent codes, save screenshots, report it to your workplace, and contact the gift card provider immediately.
