Wal-Mart, the nation's largest retailer, has had a brush with crooks cashing in gift cards. When customers at some Wal-Mart stores tried to redeem their cards, they discovered that the balances had already been spent. The company isn't disclosing many details except to say that the scam occurred at "pockets" of stores around the country and involved a minuscule number of cards. Victims who could show a receipt for their card were compensated, and the company is working to fend off future fraud attempts.
If crooks can crack the security at Wal-Mart, they could do it elsewhere. If you buy a card as a gift, play it safe by giving the recipient your receipt, too. And if you're on the receiving end, spend your card promptly.
MAGAZINE
