Protecting Your Generosity: How to Identify and Avoid Charity Scams

Charity scams are a heartless deception that prey on people’s kindness and desire to help others. These schemes come in many forms, so it’s important to know what tell tale signs to watch out for if you are planning to give.

The Alarming Rise in Losses

According to the FBI’s 2020 report on internet crime, losses due to charity fraud and scams have been steadily increasing over the years. In 2020 alone, victims of online charity scams lost a staggering $4.4 million. Shockingly, this figure doesn’t even account for offline charity fraud or unreported incidents, underlining the magnitude of the problem.

Why Charity Scams Target Compassion

The human tendency to lend a helping hand is both heartwarming and exploitable. Scammers capitalize on this generosity by creating elaborate narratives that tug at heartstrings. When a desperate need arises, compassionate individuals feel compelled to contribute, unknowingly falling into the trap set by these fraudsters.

Common Types of Charity Scams

1. Impersonation Charities: Scammers replicate well-known charitable organizations, diverting funds meant for the genuine cause.
2. Dishonest Distribution Charities: Legitimate-looking charities misallocate funds for personal gain instead of aiding recipients.
3. Fake Disaster Relief Funds: Scammers exploit crises to solicit donations for fabricated nonprofits.
4. Fraudulent GoFundMe Accounts and Social Media Fundraisers: Fraudsters manipulate emotions through fabricated stories on social platforms.
5. Veterans Charity Scams: Exploiting patriotism, scammers impersonate veterans charities to target well-meaning donors.

Warning Signs of a Fake Charity

1. Hard-Sell Tactics: Beware of aggressive tactics that pressure you to donate quickly.
2. Vague Language: Steer clear of charities with unclear intentions and ambiguous descriptions.
3. Unsecured Websites: Look for “https://” and a padlock icon in the URL to ensure a secure connection.
4. Direct Contact: Legitimate charities won’t cold-call or email you unexpectedly.
5. Strange Payment Methods: Avoid cash, wire transfers, gift cards, or cryptocurrencies for donations.
6. Similar Names: Be cautious if the charity’s name is remarkably similar to a well-known organization.
7. Lack of Information or Bad Reviews: Scam charities may have no online presence or negative reviews.

Steps to Protect Yourself

1. Check Charity Credentials: Use watchdog websites like Charity Navigator, BBB Wise Giving Alliance, CharityWatch, and GuideStar to verify charities.
2. Conduct Independent Research: Look for reviews, complaints, and scams associated with the charity online.
3. Ask About Nonprofit Status: Verify if the charity is registered and request proof of nonprofit status.
4. Use Secure Passwords: Create strong, unique passwords or passphrases for each account using a password manager.
5. Monitor Your Accounts: Regularly check for unauthorized activity and sign up for identity theft protection services.
6. React Swiftly to Data Breaches: Change passwords and enable multi-factor authentication after breaches.
7. Seek Professional Help: Use tools like Aura for credit monitoring, dark web scans, and assistance in fraud resolution.

Safeguarding Your Philanthropic Spirit

In a world filled with digital threats, protecting your generosity is of paramount importance. By staying vigilant, educating yourself about common charity scams, and leveraging tools like Aura, you can ensure that your contributions reach those truly in need. Together, let’s empower ourselves and our loved ones to make a positive impact while safeguarding against the darkness of online deception.

Additional Resources:

• Aura’s Charity Scams Guide
• Aura’s Veteran Charity Scams Guide
• AARP’s Tips to Avoid Charity Scams
• FTC’s Guide on How to Donate Wisely and Avoid Charity Scams
• Canada’s Competition Bureau: Tips and Advice on Charity Scams

Remember, your generosity has the power to change lives, but safeguarding it from the clutches of scammers ensures that your impact remains genuine and meaningful.