Want to make your donations count? Make sure to do some research before giving to a charity. Find out more about avoiding a fake charity scam.
A fake charity is a phony organization that tries to benefit from your generosity and kindness for those in need. Fraudsters will take your money by pretending to be an authentic charitable organization. They will contact you via direct mail, telemarketing, door-to-door solicitations, and email. Moreover, they build a well-designed website with misleading names.
Fake charity scams can not just cost you money, but they also reroute much-needed donations away from actual causes and charities.
With some research and a couple of precaution, you can make sure that your donations go to organizations that are actually helping others.
Does the website give you information regarding the causes you wish to support or how your donations will be used? Be wary if you aren’t able to find details
about a charity’s programs and missions.
Check how organizations such as Charity Watch, Charity Navigator, and BBB Wise Giving Alliance rate a charity before donating.
Avoid making donations to a charity via gift card, cash, or wire transfer. Checks and credit cards are a much safer option.