Gift Card Code
A Gift Card Code is the unique alphanumeric string that identifies a gift card and allows its holder to redeem the associated balance. The code is the “key” to the gift card—whoever possesses it can use the value. In eCommerce, the code is entered at checkout to apply the card’s balance toward a purchase.
Code generation
Gift card codes must be unique and unpredictable. Codes are typically generated using a cryptographically secure random function to prevent guessing or brute-force attacks. Common formats include alphanumeric strings (e.g., ABCD-1234-EFGH-5678), hex strings, or custom patterns defined by the store. The code length and character set are a balance between security (longer = harder to guess) and usability (shorter = easier to type).
Security considerations
- Entropy: Use a sufficiently long code (16+ characters) with a mix of letters and numbers to make brute-force attacks impractical.
- Hashing: Some implementations store only a hash of the code in the database. The full code is shown once at issuance but never stored in plain text.
- Rate limiting: Limit the number of code validation attempts per session/IP to prevent enumeration attacks.
- One-time display: Show the full code to the purchaser/recipient once. For subsequent views, mask part of the code (e.g.,
****-****-EFGH-5678).
Formatting and UX
Group codes into readable segments separated by hyphens (e.g., XXXX-XXXX-XXXX). Avoid visually ambiguous characters—such as 0 vs O, 1 vs l, or I—to reduce input errors. Make the checkout input field case-insensitive and automatically trim whitespace for a smoother redemption experience.