New Delhi. Several users of the AI chatbot service Claude have reported unauthorized high-value gift card transactions being charged to their bank accounts, raising fresh concerns over payment security in AI subscription platforms. Anthropic, the company behind Claude AI, has acknowledged the issue and said it is strengthening safeguards, while advising affected users to update passwords and replace payment cards.
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User Reports $400 in Unauthorized Gift Card Charges
The issue gained attention after American user David Duggan filed a complaint, stating that he had subscribed to a basic $20 monthly plan but later found two separate $200 gift card transactions on his credit card statement. A third attempted transaction reportedly failed because payment confirmation was required.
According to the complainant, he did not initially receive a clear explanation after contacting Anthropic. His account was temporarily suspended during the investigation. Duggan later found similar complaints on Reddit and other online forums, where users reported comparable unauthorized gift card transactions linked to their accounts.
Concerns Over Subscription Payments and Email Security
In several cases, users reported repeated small subscription charges, while others claimed sudden large deductions. Some users also said gift card redemption emails were sent to their personal email accounts, raising concerns about possible email compromise and wider account security risks.
Anthropic has said that in verified fraud cases, subscriptions are cancelled and refunds are issued. The company has also advised users to replace their payment cards and update account passwords as a precaution.
Experts Warn of Fraud Risks in AI Subscription Platforms
Cybersecurity experts said the case reflects a broader pattern of digital payment fraud targeting subscription-based services and AI platforms. Cybercrime expert and former IPS officer Prof. Triveni Singh said attackers often exploit phishing links, stolen credentials and weak passwords to access digital payment systems.
Experts have advised users to remain cautious while enabling auto-payment features on online platforms. They also recommend keeping bank alerts active, monitoring account activity regularly and avoiding unsolicited links, gift offers and suspicious email attachments.
The incident has highlighted how online payment fraud is adapting to new digital services, including AI tools. Specialists said users must treat AI subscriptions and payment-linked accounts with the same caution as banking and financial platforms.
