Protecting Against Charity Scams After Disaster

Charity Scams After Disaster

Disasters can happen anytime and anywhere, and while many step up to help survivors, scammers often exploit these situations. Fake charities and impostors posing as legitimate organizations or government agencies frequently target both survivors and donors. Common scams include vague appeals for donations without details, fake websites with names similar to real charities and caller ID tricks to appear legitimate.

Use the IRS Tax Exempt Organization Search tool to verify charities, since donations to qualified organizations may be tax deductible. Remind your clients that legitimate charities will not request gift cards, cash or wire transfers. Additionally, clients should ask for a receipt and check their bank or credit card statements to ensure the donation amount is accurate. Suspected scams should be reported to the Federal Trade Commission.

Protecting Against Charity Scams After Disaster