Gift cards are a popular present over the holiday season and, unfortunately, that means a rise in gift card scams tends to follow in the new year. These important tips from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) can help you and your loved ones stop scammers from stealing any funds.

Just a few examples of the most common gift card scam scenarios include someone calling and pretending to be from a government agency, claiming you owe taxes or a fine. Another often reported example is a scammer claiming to be a friend or family member who is in trouble and needs money immediately. You may also have a scammer claim you won a prize, but you must pay fees in order to receive it. In each of these situations, scammers will suggest using gift cards to pay.

Other strong signs that you may be talking to a scammer include pressure to act quickly, being asked for a gift card number and PIN, or being told to buy cards at several stores so cashiers aren’t suspicious.

If you think you’ve been contacted by a gift card scammer, the FTC recommends reporting it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov.