Charity Scam
Charity Scams
- Watch for social network messages, e-mails or text messages that claim to have exclusive information or photos. Clicking on attachments or clicking links in these communications can expose your computer or phone to malicious software.
- Look up charities by name at www.charitynavigator.org or www.give.org.
- Use caution with any charity that popped up since the incident. Research who will administer the funds, how they will be used and if donations are tax-deductible.
- Be leery of high-pressure pitches, and requests to wire money.
- Avoid donating cash or wiring money to people or organizations you don’t know.
- If you are donating via a public fundraising website (often called “crowdfunding”), review the site’s safety and security policies before making a payment. While these sites typically have a number of safeguards in place for users, understand that there is no way to guarantee that the information posted is completely accurate or truthful.
- If you question the legitimacy of a charity, seek contact information for the operation rather than using the contact information provided in the pitch or search listing.