Physical Steam gift cards, loved by generous gifting grandparents and scumbag scammers alike (and unfortunately, often in unintended collaboration), are set to be discontinued by the end of 2026. Citing the aforementioned scammer attraction, VALVE has decided to end production of the cards, and they will not be restocked at retailers once sold out. VALVE expects this to happen before the end of the year, but I’d wager some will be found well into next year at less trafficked locations.
Digital gift cards will still be available, with the platform stating that they aim to improve that experience going forward.
Unfortunately, I expect scammers to pivot to another gift card to continue duping the innocent. Now’s as a good a time as any to remind you to educate your family about scammers, be them gift card scammers, Nigerian Princes, Tinder (or Grindr) etc.
Some good resources:
