SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/sec-gift-card-boss

A text from 'your boss' asks you to buy gift cards for clients and send the codes. Best first move?

Check with your boss using a number or channel you already trust.

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  1. Check with your boss first, using a known number ✔
  2. Buy them and send photos of the codes
  3. Buy them and ask for repayment later

Why: Scammers copy a boss's name and make the request urgent and secret. A quick call to the real boss ends the scam.

Huh, didn't know that: The FTC says scammers pretending to be your boss keep asking for gift cards even after the holiday season.

The dad joke
My boss never texts me for gift cards. He emails me for spreadsheets, like a normal person.
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References

Answer: Check with your boss first, using a known number. Scammers copy a boss's name and make the request urgent and secret. A quick call to the real boss ends the scam.

  1. FTC: No, that's not your boss asking you to buy gift cards consumer.ftc.gov/consumer-alerts/2026/01/no-thats-not-your-boss-asking-you-buy-gift-cards
    Some scammers might even reach out by pretending to be your boss and asking you to buy gift cards for them.
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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Security & PrivacySomeone says you must pay a bill, fine or fee with gift cards. Who does that?Security & PrivacyYou already sent gift card codes to a scammer. What does the FTC say to do right away?Security & PrivacyPer the FTC, when might a scammer already have a gift card's number and PIN?

That's stuff everyone should know.