Shell Gas ripoff, FALSE Gift Card Advertising, card can't be used at a Shell station Houston Texas

I recently bought 5 x $25 shell gift card. The first time I tried to use the gift card at a Shell pump, I got 'network unavailable' error. I went inside and was told that they couldn't accept the gift card because they had network problem. The problem has been on for 'a few days' and they couldn't tell me when it would be fixed.

I pointed out to cashier that on the back of the card, it states 'TREAT THIS CARD LIKE CASH' (printed in capital, ironically). They did accept cash and credit card at the time, but not gift card. Cashier still wouldn't help me with the gift card. I called shell gift card help line and emailed their customer service center later.

Bottom line is they agreed that the gift card can NOT be treated like cash. They gave me a lot of 'reasons'. Like the gas station failed to redeem my gift card is individual owned shell station. Then there is someone mentioned that if the station doesn't have the 'software', they could NOT accept gift cards.

Also their gift card help line is terrible. First CSR I talked to hang up on me. Second transferred me to their supervisor. But after over 5 minutes ringing, no one picked up the phone and there is no answer machine.

I asked for a return cause their false advertising but refused by gift card help line. I emailed their customer service again to ask for the return. If no answer, I will file BBB. Will keep you all updated.

So be aware, DO NOT buy shell gift card cause you will have trouble to use them later.

Ling
East Lansing, Michigan
U.S.A.