The holidays are usually the time folks get into the giving mood. But, according to Liisa Budge-Johnson of the Plymouth County Sheriff’s Office, some charities aren’t actually all that charitable.

Presenting to a small audience Saturday morning, Budge-Johnson warned her listeners against people or organizations masquerading as what she called “good” charities. Once, she said, she ran into a Worcester-based organization run by a woman who claimed to funnel money to older individuals – but, after some investigation, it turned out they were simply picking up older, homeless people, and having them sell candy to “line this woman’s pockets.”

“Obviously, not a good charity,” Budge-Johnson said. “This woman was taking in over $90,000 per year, just selling candy. And how many people bought candy bars, thinking they were helping someone, doing something good?”

She also explained how to begin to identify charities that actually benefit their intended recipients. This includes looking at their history on sites like Charity Navigator, making sure donation is tax-deductible, and never giving money over the phone. In fact, skip the cash-giving altogether, Budge-Johnson said, and use checks. She said they are the most secure way of giving, because they are easily tracked.

Budge-Johnson also said there is an easy way to tell if charities are selling your name to other charities or organizations.

“When you send them that first information packet … change your middle initial,” Budge-Johnson said. “Now if you get mail with that middle initial, you’ll know they sold [your name].”