According to police, the incident was reported at approximately 10:55 p.m. on June 15, 2026, on Schuylkill Mountain Road in Wayne Township.
Troopers said a 27-year-old man believed he had been contacted by his employer and was instructed to purchase $1,600 worth of gift cards for a company event. The victim reportedly complied and later provided the gift card codes through text messages to an unknown individual who was posing as his employer.
After sending the codes, the victim discovered the request was fraudulent and that he had been deceived by a scammer.
Police said the victim suffered a monetary loss of $1,600 as a result of the incident.
The investigation remains ongoing by the Pennsylvania State Police Schuylkill Haven.
Authorities continue to remind residents that legitimate employers, businesses, and government agencies typically do not request payment or purchases through gift cards. Anyone receiving such a request should verify it directly with the organization through a known phone number or contact before taking action.