I was surprised when Home Depot asked for my ID while using a gift card. Why do they ask everyone with a gift card to scan their ID?

Gift card security requires ID verification, which may be inconvenient but protects Home Depot and its customers. For several reasons, Home Depot requires gift card holders to scan their ID:
• To stop fraud. Home Depot wants to make it harder for scammers to use stolen or counterfeit gift cards. Home Depot verifies gift card ownership by requiring ID.
• To monitor suspicious activity. If Home Depot sees a customer using a gift card for multiple large purchases or commonly resold items, they may request ID to investigate. This helps Home Depot detect and prevent fraud.
• Regulatory compliance. Gift card users must show identification in some states and municipalities. Home Depot must follow these laws to operate here.
Having an ID when using a Home Depot gift card is not mandatory but can be requested, particularly for substantial purchases.