aiqbench analysis
Valve is discontinuing physical Steam gift card restocks to mitigate persistent fraud targeting users and retailers. This strategic shift prioritizes platform security over physical distribution channels, though existing cards and digital alternatives remain fully supported. The move signals a broader industry trend where digital-only redemption is becoming the standard to combat evolving scam tactics.
Valve is phasing out physical Steam gift cards due to scammers
After over a decade, Steam will no longer sell physical gift cards in stores. In a support page spotted earlier by Windows Central, Valve says it will no longer restock its gift cards once they run out, citing scammers who "continue to have an impact on Steam customers and other unsuspecting individuals." In its post, Valve links to a Federal Trade Commission article outlining how gift card scammers attempt to convince victims to buy a gift card at a store and give them the code. Valve says it has responded to these scams by working with law enforcement, adding a warning to gift cards, and limiting their availability in stores, but "scammer … Read the full story at The Verge.
Valve expects Steam gift cards to sell out in stores by the end of 2026. Valve expects Steam gift cards to sell out in stores by…
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