Valve has decided to stop restocking physical Steam gift cards at retailers once current stock runs out. The move comes as the company cites ongoing issues with scammers using the cards to target victims worldwide.
Valve updated its Steam Support FAQ page on June 9 to announce the change. The company introduced physical Steam gift cards in 2012 and added a digital option in 2017. Valve stated that scammers have used gift cards from major brands like Steam to take advantage of people. The firm has worked with retailers and law enforcement, added warnings to cards, and limited availability in some areas, but scammers adapted. As we have continued to put more and more restrictions in place, scammers have adapted, the company said. So we've made the difficult decision to end the Steam Gift Card program at retail stores. Current stock is expected to sell out by the end of 2026. All physical cards sold this year will remain usable, while Valve plans to expand its digital gift cards service.