(CNN)– Gift cards are convenient for holiday giving.

But it’s important to protect the money you put on the card from fraudsters.

Always inspect a physical gift card.

The pin should be concealed when you buy it.

If the card’s protective covering has been scratched off, revealing the pin, whoever stole the pin can drain your money from the card.

Your safest option may be to buy a gift card online from a reputable retailer but don’t buy gift cards from online auction sites.

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