Avoiding Charity Scams

By Joan Honeycutt

We have officially entered the Christmas season. It is a season that many of us look forward to – the shopping, the gift-giving, the festive gatherings, the extra time spent with family and friends. Unfortunately, this is also the season of increased charity scamming. It is sad to say that it is not beneath criminals to take advantage of the goodwill that accompanies the Christmas season. But you need not be a victim of charity scams. If you keep your eyes open, you can spot scams before it’s too late.

Listen Carefully. When you are being asked to make a charitable donation, it is important to listen to what is being said and what isn’t being said. If they are using high-pressured tactics rather than giving you detailed information about their organization, you should be skeptical. Other red flags include thanking you for making a contribution that you don’t remember making and using a name that is similar to, but slightly different from, a well-known reputable organization.

Ask Questions. If you are unsure about the organization asking you for a contribution, it is helpful to ask questions. Ask for detailed information about the organization, such as name, address, and telephone number, as well as about what the organization actually does. You can also ask if the caller is from the organization or a paid fundraiser. When receiving requests from paid fundraisers, you should check with the charitable organization to verify that the fundraisers are indeed collecting on the organization’s behalf.

Do Research. Checking out an organization is an important part of protecting yourself from scams. You should be wary of any caller who demands an immediate donation. Ask them to send information to you about the charity or if this is not an option, ask for a website where you can learn more and donate online if you choose to do so. You can get information about charities and fundraising organizations at the following places: National Association of State Charity Officials, Better Business Bureau’s (BBB) Wise Giving Alliance, Charity Navigator, Charity Watch, or GuideStar.

Report Suspected Scams. If you find yourself a victim of a scam or if your due diligence leads you to discover one, you should report this to the Federal Trade Commission. These reports are collected and can lead to investigations and prosecutions. If you believe that you have experienced fraud on a credit or debit card or a bank account, you should also contact Federated Bank to ensure against ongoing loss.

It is great to have a heart that is eager to give, whether at the holidays or any time of the year. But don’t let your generosity make you vulnerable. By staying aware and being engaged, you can protect yourself from most scams. Then you can be free to give to those charities and causes that are legitimate and deserve your support.