Beware of Viral $750 Walmart Gift Card Scams – What You Need to Know
Written by: Thomas Orsolya
Published on:
Have you seen those social media posts promising easy $750 Walmart gift cards? At first glance, scoring a massive free rewards card seems like a sweet deal. But are these viral giveaways flooding your feed too good to be true?
Read on to unravel the truth behind these online offers making big promises of Walmart gift cards in exchange for just a few simple steps. We’ll uncover the scam tactics being used to target unsuspecting shoppers, and equip you with tips to avoid becoming a victim.
An In-Depth Look at the $750 Walmart Gift Card Scam
A clever social media scam is capitalizing on Walmart’s brand recognition to fool unsuspecting shoppers with the enticing promise of easy free rewards. The viral offers promote a special chance to claim a $750 Walmart gift card through an exclusive giveaway or promotion. But in reality, it’s an elaborate phishing scheme aimed at harvesting users’ sensitive login credentials and personal data.
The scam ads and posts are made to look official using Walmart’s trademarked logo, fonts, imagery of real gift cards, and the exact $750 value touted in many of their genuine promotions. Employing the familiar branding tricks users into believing the offers come directly from Walmart, rather than an unknown scammer.
Attention-grabbing headlines invite people to click on links leading to sophisticated fake websites dressed up to precisely mimic Walmart’s real online portal. The fraudulent sites even include interfaces for users to “log in” and manage their accounts.
Everything from the visual design to the domain name is meticulously cloned to dupe visitors. But upon closer inspection, the URLs often contain odd additions like “reward”, “redeem”, “giftcard”, or “offer750” revealing their bogus nature.
On these counterfeit sites, users are prompted to input login credentials or personal information to register for the promised $750 gift card. In some versions, they must complete additional steps like surveys, free trials, or suspicious downloads before the reward can be “unlocked.”
In reality, the scam’s only intention is harvesting usernames, passwords, email addresses, and other user details for criminal purposes. There are no actual gift cards being given out.
Once scammers acquire someone’s Walmart username and password through the phishing site, they can access the real account to change settings for fraudulent purposes. They may update the linked payment info, shipping address, or steal loyalty points.
In other cases, scammers use the account access to pivot into additional identity theft or retail fraud schemes. They may attempt to reset passwords on the user’s other online accounts by abusing the “Forgot Password” auto-recovery options.
Some variations aim to infect devices with malware by getting victims to download suspicious apps and files disguised as Walmart “reward claiming” programs. This grants scammers remote access to access even more sensitive data.
Walmart has confirmed these supposed $750 gift card offers are completely fake and unauthorized. The company is actively working to detect and pursue legal action against scammers impersonating their brand. But consumers must also exercise extreme caution around unbelievable deals requiring upfront personal data.
When scrutinized objectively for red flags like poor grammar, urgent call-to-actions, and illogical reward mechanisms, the scam’s real goals become obvious. Don’t let a convincing corporate impersonation trick you into compromising sensitive information online.
How the $750 Walmart Gift Card Scam Fools Users Step-by-Step
Here’s an inside look at the tactics scammers use at each stage of this prevalent con:
Step 1: Deceptive Social Media Posts
The scam starts with sponsored ads or posts on platforms like Facebook, Instagram and TikTok. Using Walmart’s logo and gift card graphics, they promote a special chance to earn a $750 card through an “exclusive” giveaway, review panel or promotion.
Some versions have fake reviews and comments from people claiming they received their gift cards already. This adds bogus social proof that the offer is legitimate.
Step 2: Clicking Links to Fake Walmart Reward Sites
When users click on the links in the scam posts, they are taken to sophisticated fake websites made to closely impersonate Walmart’s real website and online account portal.
While the URL may be slightly different, everything else from the logo to the visual design is meticulously copied to dupe visitors.
Step 3: Phishing for Login Credentials
On the fraudulent sites, users are prompted to “log in” to redeem the $750 gift card using their Walmart account credentials. Scammers do this to steal real usernames and passwords.
In other versions, users are asked to complete a gift card “registration” form that phishes for personal and financial account details.
Step 4: Malware Downloads and Account Access
In addition to harvesting login info directly, the fake Walmart domains may attempt to get users to download malware-laced apps or files to infect devices and gain access to accounts stored locally.
Step 5: Accounts Compromised, Gift Card Never Received
Unsuspecting users who comply with all the scam’s steps soon realize they were duped when no $750 gift card ever arrives. Meanwhile, scammers leverage stolen account access to expose users to additional frauds.
The phishers bank on the small percentage of people who take the bait to make their scams profitable. But users should remember that if an online offer looks too good to be true, it certainly is.
Recognizing Red Flags of the Walmart Gift Card Scam
Despite the sophisticated cloning of Walmart’s branding, a trained eye can spot red flags proving these offers are 100% fake:
Suspicious links – Check the URL for odd variations signalling an imitation site.
Poor spelling/grammar – Sloppy mistakes reveal lack of legitimacy.
Requests for sensitive information – Walmart would never ask outright for financial data.
Malicious downloads – Real rewards don’t involve downloading unverified files or apps.
When objectively analyzed, the scam’s real goals become obvious: steal usernames and passwords, infect devices, and access online accounts. Be vigilant to protect yourself.
Steps to Take if You Engaged With a Scam Offer
If you supplied any sensitive information, passwords or downloaded files through one of these offers, take these steps immediately:
Run full system antivirus and malware scans to remove anything suspicious downloaded through the scam.
Change your Walmart account username and password. Make it long, complex and unique from all other accounts. Turn on two-factor authentication.
Place fraud alerts on your credit reports and closely monitor all financial accounts for unauthorized activity.
Contact Walmart to report the scam site and account compromise. Provide details to assist their abuse team’s investigation.
Avoid further engagement with scammers now that they have your login credentials. Never share additional sensitive personal or financial information.
Is Your Device Infected? Run a Free Malware Scan
Slow performance, constant pop-ups, or strange behavior? These are classic signs of a malware infection. The fastest way to find out is to scan your device with Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Free — one of the most trusted malware removal tools available.
The free version detects and removes the most common threats, including:
Adware — the cause of those annoying pop-ups
Browser hijackers — unwanted redirects and changed homepages
Trojans and spyware — hidden programs stealing your data
Potentially unwanted programs (PUPs) — software you never asked for
👉 Select your device below — Windows, Mac, or Android — then follow the simple steps to download Malwarebytes, scan your system, and remove any threats it finds. The whole process takes about 5 minutes.
Malwarebytes for WindowsMalwarebytes for MacMalwarebytes for Android
Run a Malware Scan with Malwarebytes for Windows
Malwarebytes is one of the most popular and trusted anti-malware tools for Windows — and it’s completely free for removing infections. It catches threats that many antivirus programs miss, including adware, browser hijackers, and trojans. Follow the steps below to scan and clean your PC in just a few minutes.
Download Malwarebytes
Click the button below to download the latest version of Malwarebytes for Windows from the official source. The free version is all you need — it will scan your computer and remove adware, browser hijackers, and other malicious software at no cost.
(The link opens in a new page where your download will start)
Install Malwarebytes
When the download finishes, open your Downloads folder and double-click the MBSetup file. If Windows shows a User Account Control pop-up, click “Yes” to allow the installation.
Follow the On-Screen Prompts to Install Malwarebytes
The setup wizard will walk you through a few quick screens:
Choose where you’re installing the program — “Personal Computer” or “Work Computer” — then click Next.
Malwarebytes will now install on your device. This usually takes under a minute.
When installation is complete, the “Welcome to Malwarebytes” screen will open automatically.
On the final screen, click Open Malwarebytes to launch the program.
Enable “Scan for Rootkits”
Before scanning, turn on rootkit detection so Malwarebytes can find even the most hidden threats. Click the Settings gear icon on the left side of the screen.
In the settings menu, find “Scan for rootkits” and click the toggle so it turns blue.
Done? Click “Dashboard” in the left pane to return to the main screen.
Start the Scan
Click the blue Scan button. Malwarebytes will automatically update its virus database and start checking your computer for malware.
Wait for the Scan to Finish
The scan checks your entire system for browser hijackers and other malicious programs, so it can take several minutes. Feel free to do something else — just check back occasionally to see the progress.
Quarantine the Detected Threats
When the scan is done, you’ll see a list of everything Malwarebytes found — malware, adware, and potentially unwanted programs. Click the “Quarantine” button to remove all of them at once.
Malwarebytes will now remove the malicious files and registry entries and move them safely into quarantine.
Restart Your Computer
Some threats can only be fully removed after a reboot. If Malwarebytes asks you to restart, click Yes. Once you’re logged back in, your PC is clean and you can continue with the next steps in this guide.
When the scan finishes, click Quarantine to remove everything Malwarebytes found. That’s it — your Windows PC is now clean of trojans, adware, and other malware, and should be back to running smoothly.
If your current antivirus allowed this malicious program on your computer, you may want to consider purchasing Malwarebytes Premium to protect against these types of threats in the future. If you are still having problems with your computer after completing these instructions, then please follow one of the steps:
Malwarebytes for Mac is a free on-demand scanner that removes the malware other security software tends to miss — adware, browser hijackers, and unwanted programs included. Cleaning an infected Mac with Malwarebytes has always been completely free, and it’s our go-to recommendation. Follow the steps below to scan and clean your Mac in just a few minutes.
Download Malwarebytes for Mac
Click the button below to download the latest version of Malwarebytes for Mac.
When the download finishes, open your Downloads folder and double-click the setup file to begin the installation.
Follow the On-Screen Prompts to Install Malwarebytes
The Malwarebytes for Mac Installer will guide you through a few quick screens. Click “Continue” and keep following the prompts until the installation completes.
When the installation is complete, Malwarebytes opens to the Welcome to Malwarebytes screen. Click “Get started“.
Select “Personal Computer” or “Work Computer”
Malwarebytes will ask what type of computer you’re installing it on. Click either Personal Computer or Work Computer, whichever applies.
Start the Scan
Click the “Scan” button. Malwarebytes will automatically update its detection database and begin checking your Mac for malware.
Wait for the Scan to Finish
Malwarebytes will scan your Mac for adware, browser hijackers, and other malicious programs. This can take a few minutes, so feel free to do something else — just check back occasionally to see the progress.
Quarantine the Detected Threats
When the scan is done, you’ll see a list of everything Malwarebytes found. Click the “Quarantine” button to remove all the threats at once.
Restart Your Mac
Malwarebytes will now remove all the malicious files it found. Some threats can only be fully removed after a reboot — if Malwarebytes asks you to restart, allow it. Once you’re logged back in, your Mac is clean.
Once the scan is done, remove every threat it detected. Your Mac is now free of adware, rogue browser extensions, and other potentially harmful software.
If your current antivirus allowed a malicious program on your computer, you might want to consider purchasing the full-featured version of Malwarebytes Anti-Malware to protect against these types of threats in the future. If you are still experiencing problems while trying to remove a malicious program from your computer, please ask for help in our Mac Malware Removal Help & Support forum.
Run a Malware Scan with Malwarebytes for Android
Malwarebytes for Android automatically detects and removes dangerous threats like malware and ransomware so you don’t have to worry about your most-used device being compromised. Aggressive detection of adware and potentially unwanted programs keeps your Android phone or tablet running smooth.
Download Malwarebytes for Android.
You can download Malwarebytes for Android by clicking the link below.
In the Google Play Store, tap “Install” to install Malwarebytes for Android on your device.
When the installation process has finished, tap “Open” to begin using Malwarebytes for Android. You can also open Malwarebytes by tapping on its icon in your phone menu or home screen.
Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the setup process
When Malwarebytes will open, you will see the Malwarebytes Setup Wizard which will guide you through a series of permissions and other setup options. This is the first of two screens that explain the difference between the Premium and Free versions. Swipe this screen to continue. Tap on “Got it” to proceed to the next step. Malwarebytes for Android will now ask for a set of permissions that are required to scan your device and protect it from malware. Tap on “Give permission” to continue. Tap on “Allow” to permit Malwarebytes to access the files on your phone.
Update database and run a scan with Malwarebytes for Android
You will now be prompted to update the Malwarebytes database and run a full system scan.
Click on “Update database” to update the Malwarebytes for Android definitions to the latest version, then click on “Run full scan” to perform a system scan.
Wait for the Malwarebytes scan to complete.
Malwarebytes will now start scanning your phone for adware and other malicious apps. This process can take a few minutes, so we suggest you do something else and periodically check on the status of the scan to see when it is finished.
Click on “Remove Selected”.
When the scan has been completed, you will be presented with a screen showing the malware infections that Malwarebytes for Android has detected. To remove the malicious apps that Malwarebytes has found, tap on the “Remove Selected” button.
Restart your phone.
Malwarebytes for Android will now remove all the malicious apps that it has found. To complete the malware removal process, Malwarebytes may ask you to restart your device.
After the scan, tap Remove Selected to delete all detected threats. Your Android phone is now clean — no more malicious apps, adware, or browser redirects.
If your current antivirus allowed a malicious app on your phone, you may want to consider purchasing the full-featured version of Malwarebytes to protect against these types of threats in the future. If you are still having problems with your phone after completing these instructions, then please follow one of the steps:
Restore your phone to factory settings by going to Settings > General management > Reset > Factory data reset.
Now that your device is clean, keep it that way. Most infections start with a malicious ad or a fake download button — so blocking them at the source is your best defense.
We recommend AdGuard, which blocks malicious ads, phishing pages, and dangerous redirects before they can reach you.
Here are some tips to protect yourself from fake gift card and account phishing scams:
Verify directly on Walmart’s official website rather than trusting third-party links or messages.
Search online to confirm legitimacy before providing any sensitive login credentials or personal information.
Analyze URL links closely to spot typos or odd domains signaling imitation sites.
Read all terms and disclosures fully before downloading apps, files or entering account details anywhere.
If an online offer appears wildly unrealistic, it’s likely a scam. Err on the side of caution.
Staying vigilant requires work. But outsmarting scammers gets easier the more educated you become about their typical tricks.
FAQ About the Counterfeit $750 Walmart Gift Card Offer
1. How does the $750 Walmart gift card scam work?
The scam starts with social media posts using Walmart branding to promote a fake gift card giveaway. Clicking links goes to phishing sites pretending to be Walmart.com. Users are tricked into entering account credentials or personal data, which is stolen.
2. What tricks do the scammers use?
The posts use official logos, real gift card graphics, and mentions of legitimate promotions to appear credible. The fake sites copy Walmart’s design to dupe visitors. Pushy language manufactures urgency. Fake reviews build social proof.
3. What happens after clicking the links?
The phishing sites prompt users to “log in” with their Walmart account credentials or provide personal info under the guise of claiming the $750 card. This gives scammers access to accounts and sensitive data.
4. Do you actually get a gift card?
No. Walmart confirms these viral offers are completely fake. No $750 rewards cards exist. The scammers’ only goal is harvesting users’ login and financial information for criminal purposes.
5. How can you recognize the $750 Walmart gift card scam?
Red flags include too-good-to-be-true rewards, sloppy grammar/spelling, odd URLs, requests for sensitive data, pushy language manufacturing urgency, and flashy claims with little logical explanation.
6. What should you do if you engaged with a scam offer?
If you provided any information or downloaded files, change your Walmart password immediately. Scan devices for malware. Place fraud alerts with credit bureaus. Report the scam to Walmart. Avoid further engagement with phishers.
7. How can you avoid these gift card scams?
Verify directly on Walmart’s official site rather than trusting third-party links. Analyze URLs for odd variations. Read all terms closely before providing data. Never download unverified files. Follow instincts if an offer seems fake.
8. Who is responsible for the Walmart gift card scam?
Unknown scammers unaffiliated with Walmart. The company is working to pursue legal action against scammers misusing their brand and deceiving customers.
9. Does Walmart offer legitimate $750 gift cards?
Yes, but only through their official website and app, in-store, and via select partner promotions. Walmart will never ask outright for sensitive data to claim gift card rewards.
10. What should you do if you see a sketchy Walmart gift card offer?
Walmart advises reporting questionable social media posts, websites, or account login pages impersonating them to their abuse team immediately. Do not supply any information or download anything through scams.
The Bottom Line
The promise of easy free rewards like a $750 Walmart gift card may be tempting. But engaging with these viral social media offers will only lead to identity theft and account hijacking at best, or full-scale financial frauds at worst.
As scammers exploit trendy brands to lend legitimacy to cons, we must keep our guard up. When unbelievable deals pop up, restrain that click finger. Verify directly, analyze closely, and trust your instincts. Don’t become the next victim. A scam revealed is no longer a threat.
10 Rules to Avoid Online Scams
Here are 10 practical safety rules to help you avoid malware, online shopping scams, crypto scams, and other online fraud. Each tip includes a quick “if you already got hit” action.
Stop and verify before you click, log in, download, or pay.
Most scams win by creating urgency. Verify using a trusted method: type the website address yourself, use the official app, or call a known number (not the one in the message).
If you already clicked: close the page, do not enter passwords, and run a malware scan.
Keep your operating system, browser, and apps updated.
Updates patch security holes used by malware and malicious ads. Turn on automatic updates where possible.
If you saw a scary “update now” pop-up: close it and update only through your device settings or the official app store.
Use layered protection: antivirus plus an ad blocker.
Antivirus helps block malware. An ad blocker reduces scam redirects, phishing pages, and malvertising.
If your browser is acting weird: remove unknown extensions, reset the browser, then run a full scan.
Install apps, software, and extensions only from official sources.
Avoid cracked software, “keygens,” and random downloads. During installs, choose Custom/Advanced and decline bundled offers you do not recognize.
If you already installed something suspicious: uninstall it, restart, and scan again.
Treat links and attachments as untrusted by default.
Phishing often impersonates delivery services, banks, and popular brands. If it is unexpected, do not open attachments or log in through the message.
If you entered credentials: change the password immediately and enable 2FA.
Shop safely: research the store, then pay with protection.
Be cautious with brand-new stores, “closing sale” stories, and prices that make no sense. Prefer credit cards or PayPal for dispute options. Avoid wire transfers, gift cards, and crypto payments.
If you already paid: contact your card issuer or PayPal quickly to dispute the transaction.
Crypto rule: never pay a “fee” to withdraw or recover money.
Common patterns include fake profits, then “tax,” “gas,” or “verification” fees. Another is a “recovery agent” who demands upfront crypto.
If you already sent crypto: stop paying, save evidence (wallet addresses, TXIDs, chats), and report the scam to the platform used.
Secure your accounts with unique passwords and 2FA (start with email).
Use a password manager and unique passwords for every account. Enable 2FA using an authenticator app when possible.
If you suspect an account takeover: change passwords, sign out of all devices, and review recent logins and recovery settings.
Back up important files and keep one backup offline.
Backups protect you from ransomware and device failure. Keep at least one backup on an external drive that is not always connected.
If you suspect infection: do not connect backup drives until the system is clean.
If you think you are a victim: stop losses, document evidence, and escalate fast.
Move quickly. Speed matters for disputes, account recovery, and limiting damage.
Stop payments and contact: do not send more money or respond to the scammer.
Call your bank or card issuer: block transactions, replace the card if needed, and start a dispute or chargeback.
Secure your email first: change the email password, enable 2FA, and remove unfamiliar recovery options.
Secure other accounts: change passwords, enable 2FA, and log out of all sessions.
Scan your device: remove suspicious apps or extensions, then run a full malware scan.
Save evidence: screenshots, emails, order pages, tracking pages, wallet addresses, TXIDs, and chat logs.
Report it: to the payment provider, marketplace, social platform, exchange, or wallet service involved.
These rules are intentionally simple. Most online losses happen when decisions are rushed. Slow down, verify independently, and use payment methods and account controls that give you recourse.
About Thomas Orsolya
Thomas is an expert at uncovering scams and providing in-depth reporting on cyber threats and online fraud. As an editor, he is dedicated to keeping readers informed on the latest developments in cybersecurity and tech.
