If the gift card isn't in packaging, you want to make sure the scratch off area covering the PIN is still fully intact. If you spot any signs of tampering, ...

Despite industry pushback, Maryland became the first state to require secure packaging for most gift cards sold at stores. “It will change packaging nationally,” one retail insider predicted.

He urged shoppers to exercise caution when buying gift cards. “Check the packaging for any suspicious stickers or tampering or if the card looks bent or resealed,” he said.

Make cheap packaging look chic and personalized. Good packaging doesn’t have to be expensive. Stephanieverafter , an online hair accessory boutique, packages its bows on simple cards in muted ...