During the holidays, many people decide to support a cause that they care about. Sadly, many fraudsters use the holidays as an excuse to take advantage of the generosity of others. Here are a few tips to make sure your donation counts and goes to the organization that you intend.

Be careful how you pay

• Do not donate to a charity that wants their donation in cash or gift cards.
• Pay by check or credit card if possible so you have receipt of the donation.
• Keep a record of all donations and make sure you are only charged for the amount you agreed to donate.
• Double check to make sure your donation isn't flagged as "recurring" unless you intended to do that.
• Donate directly to an organization's website rather than clicking on a link you received in a text or e-mail.

Be aware of scammer tricks

• Don't let anyone rush you into making a donation.
• Scammers can change their Caller ID so the call looks like it is from your local area.
• Promises of sweepstakes winnings in exchange for a donation is always a scam... and illegal.
• Scammers will use names that sound like real charities. Research the charity online before you make any donation for any amount.