Yes, CashStar is a legitimate company specializing in digital gift card solutions. Established in 2007 and headquartered in Portland, Maine, CashStar has developed a platform that enables businesses to sell digital gift cards directly to consumers. In 2017, CashStar was acquired by Blackhawk Network Holdings, Inc., a prominent player in the prepaid and payments industry.
Company Overview
CashStar collaborates with numerous well-known brands to provide eGift card services, aiming to offer a seamless and efficient experience for both businesses and consumers. The company’s integration into Blackhawk Network has expanded its reach and resources, further solidifying its position in the digital payments landscape.
Customer Feedback
Despite its legitimacy and industry standing, CashStar has faced significant criticism from consumers:
- Sitejabber Reviews: CashStar holds a rating of 1.1 out of 5 stars based on 225 reviews, indicating widespread customer dissatisfaction. Common complaints include issues with gift card delivery, poor customer service, and problems with card activation.
- PissedConsumer Feedback: On PissedConsumer, CashStar has a 2.4-star rating based on 183 reviews. Users frequently report challenges such as unresponsive customer support, difficulties in redeeming gift cards, and concerns about potential scams.
- Reddit Discussions: In online forums like Reddit, users have expressed skepticism about CashStar’s services, with some labeling it as a scam due to unauthorized transactions and other issues.
Employee Perspectives
From an internal standpoint, CashStar appears to maintain a positive work environment:
- Glassdoor Reviews: The company has an overall rating of 4.0 out of 5 stars on Glassdoor, with 71% of employees indicating they would recommend working there to a friend. Employees highlight a supportive work culture and commend management’s approachability.
- Indeed Reviews: Similarly, on Indeed.com, employees have praised the collaborative atmosphere and the balance between professional and personal life.
Legal Considerations
As a subsidiary of Blackhawk Network Holdings, Inc., CashStar operates under the regulatory frameworks governing digital payments and gift card services in the United States. Blackhawk Network is accredited by the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and holds an A+ rating. However, it’s noteworthy that Blackhawk Network has received over 1,000 complaints in the past three years, primarily related to issues with gift cards and customer service.
Conclusion
While CashStar is a legitimate company with a solid foundation in the digital gift card industry, potential customers should exercise caution due to the substantial number of consumer complaints. Issues such as delayed deliveries, activation problems, and inadequate customer support have been frequently reported. Before engaging with CashStar’s services, consumers are advised to conduct thorough research, read recent reviews, and consider alternative providers to ensure a satisfactory experience.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Individual experiences with CashStar may vary.