Charity Scams

Charity scams target the goodwill of seniors, especially during emotionally charged times like after natural disasters, crises, or during the holiday season. Fraudsters pose as representatives of legitimate charitable organizations or create entirely fake charities, asking for donations that never reach those in need. These scams are particularly common in the aftermath of events such as hurricanes, floods, earthquakes, or wildfires. Scammers exploit the urgency and emotional distress surrounding these events, encouraging people to donate quickly to help the victims. They may reach out through phone calls, emails, text messages, or social media, often using heart-wrenching stories and images to convince victims to give.

You receive a call or email shortly after a natural disaster, with the scammer claiming to represent a well-known charity collecting donations for disaster relief. The scammer paints a vivid picture of the devastation, perhaps sharing images or stories about victims in desperate need of help. You’re told that funds are urgently needed to provide food, shelter, and medical assistance to those affected. In some cases, the scammer may direct you to a professional-looking website or social media page that mimics the design of legitimate charity organizations. Alternatively, they might ask you to donate through less traceable means, such as wire transfers or gift cards. After making your donation, you realize that the charity is fake, and the money has gone directly into the scammer’s pocket.

• Unsolicited Requests for Donations: Be cautious of unsolicited donation requests following natural disasters, especially from charities you’ve never heard of or didn’t previously support. Legitimate organizations typically don’t cold-call or send unsolicited emails for donations.
• Untraceable Payment Methods: Scammers often request donations through wire transfers, prepaid cards, or cryptocurrency, making the funds untraceable. Reputable charities will offer secure payment options, like credit cards or official donation portals.
• Pressure to Donate Immediately: Fraudsters may claim that urgent action is needed to provide immediate relief to disaster victims, urging you to donate quickly without verifying the charity. Legitimate charities provide time for donors to research and make informed decisions.
• Slightly Altered Charity Names: Scammers sometimes create fake charities with names that closely resemble well-known organizations, hoping victims won’t notice the slight difference. Always verify the name and URL of the charity before donating.
• Suspicious Websites or Social Media Pages: If the charity’s website or social media pages look poorly designed, contain spelling errors, or use unusual URLs, it’s likely a scam. Legitimate charities maintain professional, well-established online presences.

Additional Warning:
Before donating, always research the charity using trusted platforms like Charity Navigator, GuideStar, or the Better Business Bureau. Avoid making donations over the phone or via links from unsolicited emails or messages, especially during times of crisis. Scammers capitalize on emotions during disasters to pressure you into donating, so always take the time to verify the legitimacy of the charity and the method of donation. Legitimate organizations won’t demand immediate action or ask for donations via untraceable methods.