Police: Queens man attempted to remove serial numbers from 36 gift cards in Wilton
Officers saw the man use a Dremel-style rotary tool to remove the protective foil that covers the serial numbers on gift cards. When police approached the man, who has not been identified, he attempted to hide the items.
More Stories
A Queens man is facing 36 counts of forgery after Wilton police say he attempted to remove the serial numbers of off gift cards.
On Tuesday, police responded to CVS Pharmacy following a report of a suspicious male sitting inside a vehicle with numerous gift cards.
Officers saw the man use a Dremel-style rotary tool to remove the protective foil that covers the serial numbers on gift cards.
When police approached the man, who has not been identified, he attempted to hide the items.
Officers later found 36 gift cards, tools and materials they believe he used to open the card packaging, remove the protective coverings and reseal the packaging to make the cards appear untampered with.
In addition to the 36 counts of forgery, the man was also charged with one count of criminal attempt to commit larceny.
He was held on $500,000 bond and appeared in court Thursday.
Police say this form of fraud involves tampering with gift cards before they are placed on store shelves. Once a customer purchases and activates a compromised gift card, the funds may be accessed by the fraudster.
Residents are advised to inspect gift cards before purchasing.
People should look for any altered packaging, exposed PINs or serial numbers and any proof that security coverings have been removed or replaced.
If a card looks suspicious, people should notify employees and choose another card.
