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Watch out for scammers this ‘Giving Tuesday’

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ORLANDO, Fla. — It’s “Giving Tuesday.”

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And while you might be feeling extra generous, state officials are urging you to be extra cautious as well.

READ: Brevard Zoo asks for donations to help care for Florida black bears

Chief Financial Officer Jimmy Patronis said it’s important to watch out for scammers trying to take advantage of your goodwill.

He reminded Floridians that some tricksters will try to impersonate real charities by creating fraudulent charities with similar-sounding names.

READ: Florida Agricultural Commissioner Nikki Fried offers tips to give safely ahead of Giving Tuesday

He encouraged those making donations to use a safe form of payment such as a credit card.

Click here for details on how the Better Business Bureau can help you verify a charity though its Wise Giving Alliance website.

READ: Cat that TSA officers rescued from suitcase headed to Florida, enjoyed Thanksgiving meal back home

The state also said CharityNavigator.org can be used for additional vetting.

For more information about taking safety steps when donating this Giving Tuesday, click here.

READ: See: Meet the pets available for adoption at Halifax Humane Society

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