The Knoxville Police Department warns community members to be aware of gift card scams during the holiday season.

The department reminds residents that gift cards are for gifts and not payments. Knoxville Police say that one of the best ways to identify these scams is if you are asked to provide the gift card’s information. The department adds that other common tactics scammers use include giving information about which gift card to buy and where and saying it’s an urgent matter to purchase the gift card. Residents are encouraged to only buy gift cards at stores they know and trust, inspect the card before purchasing it, and always keep a copy of the card and store receipt. Those that believe they have been a victim of a gift card scam are asked to contact the Knoxville Police Department.