Psychology aside, I find it really difficult to understand how someone rationalizes to themselves the idea that some government official calling them wants gift

Psychology aside, I find it really difficult to understand how someone rationalizes to themselves the idea that some government official calling them wants gift cards to pay their fine, or restitution, or any other legitimate payment. I mean, I wish I could pay my taxes in gift cards---you can often buy them at a discount! Maybe they convince themselves that the supposed law enforcement officer is actually asking for a bribe?