17.26 – Payment in Non-Currency

Some phishing or identity spoofing techniques ask for payment in something other than money, like iTunes or Amazon gift cards. This is an instant red flag. There is a widespread attack like this that claims to be from Canada Revenue Agency, but they, or any business really, will not ask for or accept payment in anything other than cash or credit cards. Criminals love gift cards because they are easily converted into other assets and are almost untraceable. Any request for payment in these non-traditional methods should raise instant suspicion.