MochaG
Springfield,#2Consumer Comment
Mon, May 21, 2012
As Robert said, it is a policy to prevent those who randomly put gift card number to redeem valid cards owned by others. Also, you should be able to use it in-store if you can't use it online. No, not a rip off but the OP needs a better understanding about why the policy is in place.
Robert
Irvine,#3Consumer Comment
Mon, May 21, 2012
When there is an issue with a Gift Card every company wants the ORIGINAL proof of purchase. Not sure what personal information you are afraid to ask for because B&N(and others) really only want the original proof of purchase and/or activation codes. It's not like you are asking for their SSN or 10 years of tax returns, you are asking for really nothing more than the receipt.
By the way if you already used it in the store, why can't you just use the remaining amount in the store as well?