How to keep your credit and debit cards safe this holiday season

GLENDALE, Calif. (KABC) -- Credit cards and debit cards are usually the first things out of our wallets when holiday shopping, but recent hacking incidents are a good reminder to be very careful with our plastic money.

Consumer Specialist Ric Romero recommends not using a debit card at all.

Under federal law, your personal liability for fraudulent charges on your credit card cannot exceed $50. But with a debit card, you could be liable for $500 or more.

With a credit card it's the bank's money that's stolen. With a debit card, the loss is your money and it could take weeks to get it back.

If your credit card or debit card is hacked, here is what Romero recommends you do:

- Check your statement every month.

- Call your credit card company or bank right away.

- Tell them you want to replace your card and change your pin number, and finally, sign up for a fraud monitoring service.

The holidays are supposed to be a fun time, don't let a crook spoil it.