Steam gift card scams are now one of the most common forms of online fraud. In 2022 alone, over 228 million dollars were lost to gift card scams globally, and Steam cards were among the most targeted. Most victims are approached online, often while trying to trade, buy, or sell cards.
I learned this the hard way. A buyer reached out on WhatsApp claiming to need a Steam gift card urgently. The rate sounded fair, and they even sent a fake payment screenshot to convince me. Once I sent the card code, they disappeared. No money, no response, just regret.
This is just one of many ways scammers operate. In this article, I will walk you through five common Steam gift card scams and how to avoid them.
Here are the different types of Steam gift card scams:
Email phishing is one of the most common Steam gift card scams. Scammers send emails that appear to come from Steam or a trusted brand. These emails often claim there’s a problem with your account or offer fake promotions and discounts. Once you click the link, you’re redirected to a fake page designed to steal your login or credit card information.
Some scammers pretend to run gift card exchange platforms. They may offer to trade your Steam card for another brand or currency, only to steal your code without sending anything in return. Others promise to pay you using a Steam wallet code but end up sending invalid or used codes.
Be cautious when shopping online, especially if a seller asks for payment via Steam gift cards. This is a common red flag. Scammers may claim to be selling high-value items like phones or cars, but once you send the gift card, they disappear, and the product never arrives.
Scammers often create fake websites that look like legitimate gift card stores. They list Steam cards at heavily discounted prices, such as $100 for $45, to lure buyers. Once you make a payment, you either receive a fake code or nothing at all and the site offers no real customer support.
Scammers often pretend to be a trusted contact, like a friend, popular trader, or even Steam support staff. They may claim they need help, ask you to “verify” a card, or offer a trade that sounds urgent. These scams usually happen over WhatsApp, Telegram, or social media. Once you send the code, the person disappears.
This is one of the most common Steam scams. You’ll come across an ad or post claiming you can win a free Steam gift card by completing a survey or clicking a link. Once you do, you’re asked to input personal details like your email or phone number. In the end, you either receive a fake code or nothing at all and your private information is now exposed.
Some scammers build fake relationships online, often on social media or dating platforms. After gaining your trust, they claim to be in a difficult situation and ask for help, usually in the form of a Steam gift card. Once you send the card, they cut all contact. This type of scam targets emotions and is very deceptive.
You may come across social media posts from fake influencers promising free Steam gift cards if you “like, share, and DM your code” to claim your prize. These are fake promotions used to collect gift card codes from unsuspecting users. If an offer looks too good to be true, it probably is.
It doesn’t end at just being able to identify Steam gift card scams; you also need to learn how to avoid being a victim. Steam as a brand is doing its best to curb Steam gift card scams; however, you need to stay alert.
The following tips will help you avoid Steam gift card scams:
If you’re looking to sell your Steam gift card safely, Nosh offers one of the most reliable platforms with competitive rates. You get real value for your card without the risk of being duped by online fraudsters.
Follow the steps to sell Steam Gift Cards on Nosh:
Steam gift card scams continue to trap thousands of unsuspecting users. Fake websites, impersonators, and too-good-to-be-true offers remain active threats across the internet. Many fall for these tricks and lose both their cards and personal information.
Stick to verified platforms with a track record of honest payouts and user trust. Nosh stands out as one of the safest options for trading Steam gift cards, with a quick process, solid rates, and no funny play.
Tosin
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