Money
Asked for money, gift cards, or crypto
4 reports mention this, all in the last 90 days.
Someone you haven't met in person asks you to send money, buy gift cards and read out the codes, or transfer crypto. The reason varies (a bill, a fee, a favor) but the way you're asked to pay doesn't. It's the single most common thing people report here.
What it looks like
- 'Could you help me out just this once?' with a very specific amount.
- Gift cards from a particular store, then a photo of the back with the code scratched off.
- Wire transfers, Zelle, or crypto to a wallet address, never a normal card payment.
- A small first ask, then a bigger one once the first one worked.
Why do scammers ask for gift cards?
Gift cards, wires, and crypto are like cash: once sent, they can't be pulled back, and the recipient can be anywhere. That's exactly why nobody legitimate asks to be paid that way. The story around the request is designed to make you feel needed, guilty, or rushed, so you don't stop to notice the payment method. The FTC's advice is blunt: never send money or gifts to someone you haven't met in person, no matter the reason.
What to do
- Don't send it. If it feels rude to refuse, that feeling was manufactured.
- If you already sent money, call your bank, card issuer, or the gift card company right now. Speed matters.
- Keep the messages and any receipts. You'll need them when you report it.
- Expect a follow-up from someone offering to get the money back for a fee. That's the same script, round two.
More in the tips: The four signs of a scam.
Numbers people reported for this
Latest reports
- Open reportSocial media · Ongoing relationship
- Open reportSomewhere else · Ongoing relationship
had a terrible experience with this girl. at first she was sweet and made me feel like i was the only person she wanted but eventually she started acting like cassie from euphoria. constantly needed attention and validation, switched up depending on who was giving it to her and somehow always became the victim when confronted. one minute she was obsessed with me, the next she acted completely different. everything was emotional, impulsive and full of drama. exhausting to deal with
- Open reportSomewhere else · Ongoing relationship
My experience with this person was extremely disappointing. It felt like their interest and effort depended heavily on what I was willing to spend or provide financially. Once money, gifts, or expensive experiences weren’t involved, their attitude seemed to change completely. I left feeling used rather than genuinely valued. Based on my experience, I’d be very cautious about mixing money with any relationship or arrangement involving this person.
- Open reportSocial media · First time meetingReviewed
he put his hands on me and tried to rape me while i was asleep. he does not care about anyone but himself and only follows females.