After years of using Apple products, I finally switched to Samsung. I set up my phone, bought a gift card for the Google Play Store, and they permanently block me from redeeming any gift cards. Google support only offers this:

Hello,

Thank you for your patience while we reviewed your account. We have identified some inconsistencies with your account and the information you provided us. As a result, we are unable to help you redeem these gift cards.

Thank you,

They refuse to respond after this.

My response, which was ignored:

Dear Google Play Support,

I am writing to express my deep frustration and concern regarding an unresolved issue that is both unacceptable and unethical.

On **** **, 2025, I purchased a Google Play Gift Card at Walmart Store #**** in **********, **, Canada. After recently transitioning from years of using an iPhone to a Samsung device, I attempted to redeem this card on my new Google account. To my astonishment, Google has refused to allow me to redeem it, citing vague “inconsistencies” without providing any specific details, explanation, or path to resolution.

The only support response I received was dismissive and unhelpful:
"We have identified some inconsistencies with your account and the information you provided us. As a result, we are unable to help you redeem these gift cards."

This is unacceptable. I have already submitted clear photo evidence of both the physical gift card and the original purchase receipt from Walmart, and yet I was still denied without any further guidance or resolution. You have offered no clear reason for blocking the redemption, no opportunity to clarify or correct the supposed inconsistencies, and no refund or alternative. As it stands, you have effectively taken money in exchange for a product that you are refusing to honor. This is not just poor service — it is tantamount to consumer fraud.

Furthermore, Walmart has clearly stated they will not accept returns on gift cards, meaning I am left without recourse — out of pocket through no fault of my own. If this is happening to me, it is likely happening to many others, and it raises serious concerns about Google’s practices around gift card sales and redemptions.

I demand the following:

A full and detailed explanation of the “inconsistencies” you claim to have found.

Immediate steps to correct or verify my account so that I can redeem the card.

If redemption is not possible, I demand a full refund of the purchase amount.

If this issue is not resolved promptly, I will escalate the matter to consumer protection agencies in Canada, submit a formal complaint to the Better Business Bureau, and consider filing a chargeback with my financial institution. I will also make this experience public if necessary to ensure others are not similarly affected.

I urge you to take this matter seriously and respond with a resolution within 3 business days.

Sincerely,

A customer who regrets switching to your platform.