Valve is discontinuing physical Steam gift cards by the end of 2025 due to persistent scams. Despite various protective measures, scammers adapted, impacting both Steam customers and unsuspecting individuals. Digital Steam gift cards will remain available.
Steam has announced the discontinuation of physical gift cards as of 2026, citing an increase in scamming activities. This move affects all platforms where Steam physical gift cards are currently sold. The decision underscores the platform's efforts to mitigate fraud.
A Scottish politician's embezzlement scheme took an unexpected turn with the revelation that part of the stolen funds were used for a gaming spree. Grand Theft Auto 5 (GTA 5) for PlayStation 4 was among the purchases, alongside multiple consoles and accessories. The $2,500 gaming haul is just a fraction of the over $500,000 embezzled.