Meet Sue: Your guide to spotting and stopping gift card scams
Gift card scams are a problem. That’s why we’re excited to introduce Sue, the animated face of our new awareness campaign. She may be in 2D, but her mission is anything but flat. She’s here to raise awareness, deliver clear guidance, and empower people to recognize red flags before it’s too late.
Sue brings more than just scam prevention tips to the table. She’s got a spark. When she’s not sharing the information on gift card scams, you’ll find her cruising on her motorcycle, hanging out with friends, and chasing her next big adventure. Whether she’s on the road or online, Sue stops scammers in their tracks.
While the campaign is designed to reach older adults — a group frequently targeted by scammers — Sue’s message is for everyone. Because gift card scams can happen to anyone, and everyone can benefit from knowing how they work.
What is a gift card scam?
Scammers often demand payment through gift cards because it’s fast, anonymous, and hard to trace. Legitimate companies and government agencies will never require you to pay with a gift card. If someone does, it’s likely a scam.
Here’s how a typical gift card scam works:
- You’re contacted out of the blue
A scammer might claim your electric bill is past due, your computer is hacked, or a loved one is in trouble.
- You’re pressured to act fast
The scammer demands urgency to stop you from thinking clearly.
- You’re told to buy gift cards
They may tell you where to go and what type of cards to buy (like Google Play, Apple, or Target).
- You’re told not to speak to store employees
Scammers often warn you not to talk to anyone, or they coach you on what to say if questioned.
- You’re asked to share the card info
This often includes the numbers and PINs, which they may ask you to text or send via a messaging app.
- The scammer redeems the card immediately
The money is gone before you realize it was a scam.
How Sue helps you spot and stop gift card scams
Sue avoided losing money because she learned the signs of a gift card scam. Through short, informative videos based on real-life stories and scam research, Sue teaches people how to:
- Recognize the red flags of a gift card scam
- Know what legitimate companies do and don’t do
- Take quick action to avoid financial loss
- Report scams to help protect others: BBB.org/ScamTracker
Why gift card scam awareness matters
Scammers often target older adults because they often have funds to target. But anyone can be a victim. That’s why Sue’s message is designed to resonate across generations. She’s not just our campaign spokesperson — she’s a tool for fraud prevention, scam awareness, and community protection.
Be like Sue: KNOW the signs of gift card scams
Watch Sue in action and explore the full campaign: Visit BBB.org/GiftCardScams
