I got a vanilla prepaid card from the store to do some online shopping, but I’m having trouble. I checked the balance yesterday, and it seemed fine. I tried to get a subscription to Paramount, but it didn’t work. I think it’s a postal code issue. Now, when I check my balance, the website doesn’t recognize the card at all. I made sure I was putting in the right number, tried it on different devices, and still nothing. The card is only worth $25, so it’s not a huge deal, but I’m really confused. Could I have been hacked? For context, I’m in Canada.
These cards are super limited in where you can use them. For services like Paramount, they usually need a real credit or debit card, something that can be verified by the bank. The prepaid ones don’t always work like that. Sometimes they lock the card thinking it’s fraud, and you’ll have to call to get a new one mailed. If someone actually did hack it and your money is gone, there’s not much you can do, sadly.
Gift cards like Vanilla Visa are often targeted by scammers. If the packaging looks tampered with, don’t buy it.
For subscription services, they usually want to keep charging every month, and if they see a limited balance, they’ll decline it.
Debit or credit cards tend to work much better, especially in Canada where the rewards may not be great, but at least you have some protection.
When I get these kinds of gift cards, I just use them to top up my Amazon balance right away. It’s less of a hassle than dealing with all the restrictions, especially with smaller amounts that you can’t fully spend online.
@Gentry
That’s a smart move. Have you tried calling the number on the back to see if you can check the balance that way?
I couldn’t get my vanilla card to work online either. It only worked in stores or at the gas station for me.
Vanilla cards are tough to use online for some reason. Honestly, I wouldn’t spend $5 just to activate a $25 card for something like Paramount+.
Try calling the number on the back to check if the card is still active or locked. I don’t like their website either.
If it doesn’t work in stores either, then the card might be locked, and you’ll need a replacement. I’m waiting on a replacement myself—it takes about 7-10 days.
If the balance is gone, you’ll have to show proof of purchase, like the card and the receipt, and they can issue a new one.
Which website did you use to check your balance?
Finlo said:
Which website did you use to check your balance?
vanillaprepaid.com, the one written on the back of the card.