Consumers are being warned against scammers who have figured out ways to steal gift card money. 

Consumer advocates and tech experts advise to check all gift card balances immediately and inspect the cards for tampering. There are reports that crooks are recording bar codes and PIN codes under scratch-off labels and then return the card to a store, waiting for someone to buy it.

Scammers are also replacing scratch off labels with new ones that are simple to find online. Experts say try and avoid purchasing cards that are easy to alter, favoring ones that are in secure packaging or are stored behind the counter. 

If a scammer does get access to your gift card number and drains it of all of its funds, consumer tech experts say it's best to call the company.

Consumer experts recommend using gift cards as soon as possible.