My personal rule is simple: buy google play gift card(https://www.lootbar.com/gift-card/google-play-gift-card-us ) credit only after the account country is confirmed, and only for a defined use. I run this short safety check before redemption: Confirm the Google Play country matches the card country; do this before opening the code. Match the load to a defined use, such as $29.99 for one annual Play Pass or $50 for a monthly gaming cap. Save the receipt and packaging for physical cards; retain the purchase record for e-codes. Remember that Play Credit cannot purchase Pixel phones or Nest devices from the Google Store.