Top Steam Gift Card Scams 2024 & How to Avoid Them

Steam gift cards are alternative methods of payment that can be used to purchase games, videos, and other downloadable content on Steam. Almost everywhere I go these days all I seem to hear is Steam gift card this, Steam gift card that. There is no argument that this digital asset is causing a lot of buzz in the streets. 

The high demand for Steam gift cards is both good and bad. Because almost everybody wants to get their hands on this digital asset, it means some people are willing to do anything for them to have it. Even if it is illegal.

This is why it is important for you to know the possible Steam gift card scams and how to avoid them.

4 Common Steam Gift Card Scams in 2024

Sadly, there are various methods that scammers can use to forcefully get hold of your Steam gift card. However, the most common ones are; 

1. Fake websites selling non-existent gift cards
2.  Phishing emails claiming to be from Steam
3.  Social media scams offering free Steam gift cards
4.  In-person scams at public places such as retail stores

1. Fake websites selling non-existent gift cards:

In your quest to buy Steam gift cards, it is possible to encounter scam websites. Some unpopular sites can lure you to buy from them by selling €100 steam gift cards for as low as €50 or €45. They might even go as far as sending you a fake Steam gift card receipt via mail or messages, but not the digital asset itself.

You would later realize there have no valid contact details or physical office locations you can complain to.

2. Phishing emails claiming to be from Steam:

Email phishing is one of the most popular and dubious methods of scamming victims. Scammers would send emails trying to impersonate Steam. Then, threaten you by saying something is wrong with your Steam gift card or account. Or, trick you with promos and discounts, then make you click a link.

Once you do this, they can gain access to your credit card details by hacking your phone or PC.

3. Social media scams offering free Steam gift cards:

Now that people can buy accounts and followers and possibly even verification on certain applications, it is very easy to believe an account is legit due to a large number of followers. I know I have thought so myself for a couple of accounts in the past. 

These fake accounts can use various methods to scam you. For example, they may tell you to send $50 for a $200 Steam gift card or provide your personal information to win a free Steam gift card.

4. In-person scams at public places such as retail stores:

You might think these scams only occur online. Which is not 100% true. As surprising as it may be, there have been multiple victims of in-person Steam gift card scams.

These people hang around retail stores and claim to be what they are not and get you to provide them with your personal information.

Since it’s in a public place, your guard is down, and you may even think they are connected to the retail store in some way.

Tips For Avoiding Steam Gift Card Scams

To avoid Steam gift card scams, always buy from trusted platforms, be wary of offers that seem too good to be true, protect your personal information and enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on your Steam account.

1. Only purchase gift cards from trusted sources:

One of the best ways to avoid scammers is to buy your gift cards from a secure platform solely. Having a statutory platform to buy your gift cards saves you from the stress of trying new places. 

2. Be cautious of offers that seem too good to be true:

You know what they say when it seems too good to be true; it probably is. Of course, we all like discounts and promos, but you should also believe and trust websites and individuals wisely.

I am sure you would find it fishy if someone offered you a brand-new iPhone 16 pro for $200. 

3. Don’t share personal information:

It is important to try as much as possible to guard your personal information. Even when you have to share them, ensure the mail or website is legitimate before disclosing anything. 

4. Use two-factor authentication for your Steam account:

The use of 2FA’s can also save you from these scammers. They serve as extra security. It also gives you another opportunity to confirm you are the person who wants to access your account. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Steam Gift Cards Scams

1. How Do I Report Steam Gift Card Scams?

To report a Steam gift card scam, start by contacting Steam Support and providing all the details and evidence related to the scam. You can also report the incident to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) if you’re in the United States. Additionally, inform your local law enforcement if you’ve experienced financial loss.

If the gift card was purchased from a retailer, notify them as well, as they may offer further assistance.

2. Why Would a Scammer Want a Steam Gift Card?

Scammers target Steam gift cards because they are easy to resell and difficult to trace. Once they obtain the card’s code, they can quickly redeem or sell it for cash or other digital assets. Steam gift cards are also widely accepted on various platforms, making them a convenient choice for scammers looking to exploit unsuspecting victims.

3. What Are Game Card Scams and How Can I Avoid Them?

Game card scams involve fraudsters tricking people into purchasing fake or stolen game cards or stealing card codes through phishing, fake websites, or social media scams. To avoid these scams, always buy game cards from trusted platforms and be cautious of deals that seem too good to be true.

4. Can Steam Gift Cards Be Traced?

No, Steam gift cards cannot be traced once the code has been redeemed. This is why scammers often target them—they can quickly use or resell the cards without leaving a trail.

5. Where Can I Safely Buy Steam Gift Cards in Nigeria?

The safest place to buy Steam gift cards in Nigeria is Cardtonic. Cardtonic is a trusted platform known for providing authentic gift cards at competitive rates. With a user-friendly interface, secure transactions, and instant delivery, Cardtonic ensures a hassle-free experience for buying Steam gift cards and other digital assets.

Conclusion 

This article shouldn’t make you scared. Rather, it should give you confidence that no matter who you encounter, it is almost impossible for them to dupe you.

Just remain vigilant with all your gift card transactions and report every suspicious activity to the appropriate authority, then you have nothing to worry about.