Kentucky Officials Warn Shoppers About Rising Holiday Gift Card Scams Ahead of Black Friday
FRANKFORT, KENTUCKY — State officials are urging Kentuckians to stay alert for holiday shopping scams, especially those involving gift cards, as Black Friday and the peak shopping season approach. The Administrative Office of the Courts (AOC) and the Kentucky Retail Federation have issued a warning to help residents recognize and avoid common fraud schemes circulating during the holidays.
Officials Say Scammers Are Targeting Shoppers With Fake Warrant Claims
According to the AOC, scammers frequently pressure victims to buy prepaid or store gift cards to resolve supposed legal issues — including fake arrest warrants. Officials say these scams typically begin with urgent messages sent by phone, text, or email, claiming the recipient must pay immediately to avoid arrest or legal penalties.
Darren Allen, manager of the AOC’s Division of Court Security, said scammers deliberately try to create panic.
“Criminals often pressure people to buy gift cards to resolve a supposed arrest warrant,” Allen said.
“Courts and law enforcement will never ask anyone to pay fines or fees with gift cards. If you get a message like that, stop and check before acting.”
The AOC operates a public scam alert webpage that outlines common fraud tactics impersonating courts or law enforcement agencies, including fake payment demands, jury scams, and phishing attempts.
Gift Card Scams Increasing During Holiday Shopping Surge
The Kentucky Retail Federation reports that holiday gift cards continue to be among the most popular purchases, making them a frequent target for scammers. Retailers across the state are now implementing extra safeguards to protect consumers.
Tod Griffin, president of the federation, said retailers are working to keep customers safe.
“Kentucky retailers are taking critical extra steps to safeguard the integrity of the shopping experience,” Griffin said.
“Shoppers may see protective packaging or enhanced purchase verification on gift cards.”
Gift card spending remains high, with shoppers expected to spend an average of $171 per person, and an estimated 43% of consumers planning to purchase at least one gift card this year.
Officials Also Warn About Fake Delivery Notices and Fraudulent Links
In addition to gift card scams, officials say scammers have increased the use of fake delivery notices, tracking links, and online shopping alerts — especially during the holiday shipping rush. Clicking on these links may expose shoppers to phishing attempts, identity theft, or fraudulent payment requests.
The AOC’s online resource center provides:
- A fraud fact sheet
- A video explaining common scam tactics
- Jury service information for each Kentucky county
- Instructions for reporting suspicious activity
Residents can access these resources through the AOC’s scam alert page.
As Black Friday and the holiday shopping season begin, officials say staying vigilant is the best defense against fraud. For more safety updates, community news, and statewide alerts, visit ChicagoMusicGuide.com.