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Tis the season for many people to open their hearts and wallets to those less fortunate, but when it comes to charitable giving in Florida, it’s a case of giver beware.

Allied Veterans of the World masqueraded as a charity for years. Allied Veterans’ Video says, “Allie Veterans supports charitable activities and communities throughout Florida.”

All the while pocketing millions operating internet cafes.

These guys got away with what they were doing for so long because no one but prosecutors had the power to stop them. “The single biggest flaw in Florida’s charity regulation is that there is no regulation, it is a registration,” says Adam Putnam, Agriculture Commissioner.

After Allied Veterans, the push is on to hold charities more accountable. “If you’ve been in trouble in another state you’d be prohibited from doing business in Florida raising money, soliciting money in Florida. You wouldn’t be allowed to have felons soliciting contributions,” says Putnam.

For now, You can check on your favorite charity at the Dept of Agriculture’s online Gift Givers guide.

Type in the name and up comes an accounting of what percent went to program expenses, administration, or fundraising. “But they present themselves with a similar name,” says Alyce Lee Stansbury, Consultant for Non Profits.

Alyce Lee Stansbury advises non-profits. She says most people get into trouble when the not so good charities imitate the strong ones. “Then they may end up making a gift to an organization that isn’t providing the same impact,” says Stansbury.

So if you are moved this holiday season to do something for someone less fortunate, the experts say paying attention to detail will make sure the cash you donate ends up doing the good work you intended.