Q: I was contacted recently by an astronomy organization to buy a previously undiscovered star. I paid $75 to purchase a star in memory of my deceased parents, but several colleagues now tell me I was scammed. I know dishonest people try to cheat the public, but even at Christmas? — Susanna Swindled

A: Dear Ms. Swindled: Yes, even at Christmas. In fact, more crooks crawl out of the woodwork during the holidays than at any other time of year. After all, as much as it pains me, those who still believe against oft-too many odds (i.e. the glass is still half full … Tiny Tim reigns … All folks are honest … and we always live happily ever after) are the very people whom con artists seem to attract, especially during the holiday season when our defenses are down.

On the other hand, I don’t advocate extinguishing the fire of tender giving hearts. Just be sure to keep your eyes wide open to avoid ripoffs.

So let’s talk about that star. When I researched your question, I discovered an alert from www.moneycentral@msn.com that warns consumers against certain fake companies’ that claim members of the public can name a star by paying $20-$100. These criminals are cunning enough to even mail you a certificate with the star’s name and location so you’re not suspicious enough to notify your credit card company.

The only way a star ever can be named is through the International Astronomical Union, and it normally gives numbers instead of names. Any other supposed group accomplice who declares the authority is a bald-faced liar. And if someone claims to be a member of the IAU and tries to transact this particular piece of business, hang up the phone and notify the organization at iau@iau.fr.

For many years I’ve “bought” a star that hangs on a hospital Christmas tree in memory of a dear friend. Contributions like this one for which we’re absolutely positive our funds are well spent are the best bet to avoid being scammed at any point during the year.

And regardless of your faith, culture, or inclination, Merry Christmas.

Ellen Phillips is a retired English teacher who has written two consumer-oriented books. Her Consumer Watch column appears on Saturdays in the Business section of the paper. An expanded version is at www.timesfreepress.com under Local Business. E-mail her at consumerwatch@timesfreepress.com