BOSTON -- Just about everyone with a computer has received an e-mail recently warning shoppers not to buy gift cards this holiday season from certain retailers that are financially unstable.

But don't believe it.

Don't Believe E-Mail Warning About Gift Cards

KB Toys is not closing hundreds of stores. Ann Taylor is not threatening bankruptcy -- neither is Home Depot.

There are reasons to think twice about buying gift cards, but NewsCenter 5's Susan Wornick doesn't believe this popular e-mail should be one of them.

The e-mail itself has been circulating for weeks. It lists many popular retailers as fiscally unstable.

While it includes some stores that have already closed, such as Bombay, or stores that are about to close, such as Linens 'N Things, it also casts doubt on perfectly viable companies that have no plans to downsize.

For example, the e-mail says The Home Depot will close 15 stores. The company says that's old news, and has "no plans to close additional stores." In fact, it's opening a new location in Hadley, Mass., on Dec. 11.

The e-mail also claims Ann Taylor will shut down 117 stores. In a statement, Ann Taylor called the e-mail a hoax that's "false and misleading." The company announced the closings of 117 "underperforming stores" almost a year ago, but continues to operate nearly 1,000 other locations.

Wornick said shoppers should think twice about purchasing gift cards for other reasons. The cards can go forgotten and unused in drawers. Some diminish in value over time. And of course, there is always the possibility a store can close, leaving you with nothing.

But this e-mail isn't all true. Don't let it be your guide about buying gift cards, and don't pass it along to others.