USA & Canada: +1-800-752-1017
International : +1 828-210-4754
Types of Gift Card Fraud Packaging
Gift cards have become a gift-giving go-to staple, offering convenience and flexibility for consumers. However, with this growing popularity comes a rise in gift card fraud. Fraudsters devise increasingly sophisticated methods to steal or tamper with gift cards, turning a well-intentioned present into a financial nightmare.
The Deceptive Facade: Types of Gift Card Fraud Packaging
Fraudsters often target gift cards during transit or at retail locations. Here's a closer look at some common methods of gift card fraud packaging:
Fortress of Protection: Gift Card Fraud Prevention Packaging Solutions
Fortunately, advancements in packaging technology offer effective solutions to combat gift card fraud. Here are some gift card fraud prevention packaging methods:
Tampered Packaging
Fraudsters may tamper with the original packaging, resealing it after stealing the gift card PIN or value. This can be difficult to detect, as the packaging may appear legitimate at first glance.
Tamper-Evident Packaging
These packages utilize special seals or closures that demonstrate tampering if broken. This provides a clear visual cue to both retailers and consumers, deterring theft and alerting them to potential fraud.
Tamper-Evident Labeling
Security labels with voiding features can be applied directly to the gift card packaging. Any attempt to remove the label will leave a visible mark, indicating tampering.
Counterfeit Packaging
Sophisticated criminals create near-perfect replicas of legitimate gift card packaging, complete with logos and barcodes. These counterfeit packages may contain either no card or a card with a pre-drained balance.
Holographic Overlays and Security Printing
Embedding holograms and security printing into the packaging adds another layer of protection. These features are difficult to replicate and can readily identify counterfeit packaging.
Packaging with Hidden Tampering Mechanisms
Some fraudsters employ more elaborate techniques, installing hidden mechanisms within the packaging that allow them to access the gift card PIN or value without breaking the seal.
Unique Serial Numbers and Barcodes
Assigning unique serial numbers and barcodes to each gift card allows for better tracking and identification. Discrepancies between the packaging and card information can flag potential fraud.
Shrink Wrap Swapping
Fraudsters may use heat guns or other tools to carefully remove the original shrink wrap from a legitimate gift card package. They then replace it with shrink wrap containing a stolen or deactivated card, making the tampering nearly undetectable.
Cold and Hot Glue Combination Seals
These seals provide a strong permanent bond making it nearly impossible to reseal the package after tampering without leaving visible evidence.
Beyond Packaging: Holistic Strategies for Gift Card Fraud Prevention
Gift card fraud prevention extends beyond secure packaging. Here are some additional strategies to consider:
Secure Storage and Distribution
Gift cards should be stored securely throughout the supply chain to prevent unauthorized access.
Employee Training
Retail staff should be trained to identify signs of gift card fraud packaging and verify the authenticity of cards before activation.
Consumer Awareness
Educate consumers about the risks of gift card fraud and advise them to purchase gift cards directly from reputable retailers, avoiding suspicious online deals.
Online Verification Tools
Many gift card issuers offer online verification tools that allow consumers to instantly confirm the validity and balance of their gift cards.
Working Together: Retailers, Consumers, and Issuers Unite Against Fraud
The fight against gift card fraud requires a collaborative effort. Retailers can implement secure gift card fraud prevention packaging solutions and train their staff. Consumers need to be vigilant and purchase gift cards from trusted sources. Finally, gift card issuers have a vital role to play by developing robust security features and offering consumer protection measures.
At PLI, we have invested in multiple cold glue machinery equipment to bring you the most advanced and innovative fraud prevention solutions. We are dedicated to our goals of protecting your business and your customers. We have on our pulse on the industry and collaborate with our partners to implement products and new advancements to effectively detect and deter fraud.
About Plasticard – Locktech International
PLI is the largest Closed Loop Gift, Loyalty and Hospitality card manufacturer in North America. PLI has been in business for over 30 years, specializing in end-to-end card marketing solutions including card production, design, packaging, displays, consulting and fulfillment services and capabilities. PLI has three manufacturing facility locations including two in Las Vegas, NV and one in Asheville, NC.
Recent
PLI has surpassed 1 billion RFID cards produced since 2015, a milestone that reflects more than a decade of growth, innovation, and customer partnership.
3 Sep 2026
Labor Day is a chance to recognize the people who make our success possible. Every day, employees across PLI bring commitment, hard work, and determination to do things the right way. Those efforts make a difference for our customers and help move our company forward.
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PLI is proud to recognize Dilan Rodriguez as our Employee Spotlight for the month of September at our LV2 location. Dilan is motivated by the desire to continuously improve and help the team surpass previous records year after year.
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PLI is proud to recognize Teresita Valencia as our Employee Spotlight for the month of September at our LV1 location. As a Quality Auditor, Teresita is motivated by the collaboration she shares with her coworkers and the opportunity to contribute to the success of the team.
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PLI is proud to recognize Saleena Allen as our Employee Spotlight for the month of September at our Asheville location. Saleena is motivated by helping others and takes pride in finding solutions to challenges that arise throughout the workday.
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Newsroom
One Billion RFID Cards and Counting: PLI Reaches Major Manufacturing Milestone
PLI has surpassed 1 billion RFID cards produced since 2015, a milestone that reflects more than a decade of growth, innovation, and customer partnership. | 3 Sep 2026
A Labor Day Message from Our CEO
Labor Day is a chance to recognize the people who make our success possible. Every day, employees across PLI bring commitment, hard work, and determination to do things the right way. Those efforts make a difference for our customers and help move our company forward. | 3 Sep 2026
September Employee Spotlight: Dilan Rodriguez | LV2
PLI is proud to recognize Dilan Rodriguez as our Employee Spotlight for the month of September at our LV2 location. Dilan is motivated by the desire to continuously improve and help the team surpass previous records year after year. | 1 Sep 2026
September Employee Spotlight: Teresita Valencia | LV1
PLI is proud to recognize Teresita Valencia as our Employee Spotlight for the month of September at our LV1 location. As a Quality Auditor, Teresita is motivated by the collaboration she shares with her coworkers and the opportunity to contribute to the success of the team. | 1 Sep 2026
September Employee Spotlight: Saleena Allen | AVL
PLI is proud to recognize Saleena Allen as our Employee Spotlight for the month of September at our Asheville location. Saleena is motivated by helping others and takes pride in finding solutions to challenges that arise throughout the workday. | 1 Sep 2026
Marriott Bonvoy NFL Key Cards Are Ready for Kickoff
Kick off football season in style with the latest Marriott Bonvoy NFL key card design, now available for purchase! | 13 Aug 2026
One Team One Dream: Helping PLI Families Start the School Year Strong
LAS VEGAS, NV – August 6, 2026 – As families prepare for a new school year, PLI's One Team One Dream initiative is once again helping employees ease the cost of back-to-school shopping through its annual School Supply Bundle Program. | 7 Aug 2026
August Employee Spotlight: Bruce Varney | AVL
PLI is proud to recognize Bruce Varney as our Employee Spotlight for the month of August at our Asheville location. As a Warehouse Lead, Bruce is motivated by working hard to support the growth and success of the company. | 4 Aug 2026
Headquarters Location
1030 E. Craig Road N. Las Vegas, NV 89030Get DirectionsUSA & Canada: 1-800-752-1017
International: +1 828-210-4754
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