Valve is ending its physical Steam gift card program after years of dealing with fraud and scam-related abuse. In an updated support notice, the company said it will stop replenishing retail stock, with remaining cards expected to disappear from stores by the end of 2026.
The rise in gift card scams has prompted the U.S. Federal Trade Commission to publish guidance on how these schemes typically work. For Steam, multiple efforts to curb abuse over the years haven’t been enough to stop fraud involving physical gift cards.
Valve said scammers have repeatedly adjusted their methods in response to the company’s anti-fraud measures. Because the issue continues to impact customers and others, Valve has chosen to end the retail Steam gift card program.
The change brings an end to a product that has remained a popular gifting option for years. Many Steam users have relied on physical gift cards as a convenient way to give games for birthdays, holidays, and special occasions.
Valve said existing physical Steam gift cards will remain valid and can still be redeemed as usual. The company also confirmed that digital gift cards will continue to be available, allowing users to send Steam Wallet funds electronically.
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