🎗️
Fake Charity Scams
Fraudsters exploit disasters and emotional events by creating fake charities that steal donations meant for victims.
$1.3B+
Annual losses (US)
Millions affected annually
Reported victims/year
Report Now
FTC: ReportFraud.ftc.gov
🎭 How Scammers Do It: Tactics
- ▸ Create fake charity websites and social media pages during disasters
- ▸ Use names similar to legitimate charities (American Red Cros, not Cross)
- ▸ Cold call with emotional appeals after news events
- ▸ Use high-pressure tactics — "Children are dying right now"
- ▸ Accept only cash, wire transfers, or gift cards (untraceable)
- ▸ Fake social media posts claiming to raise money for specific victims
🚩 Red Flags: Stop If You See These
⚠ Charity name is very similar to a well-known organization
⚠ Requests for cash, wire transfers, or gift cards
⚠ No EIN (Employer Identification Number) provided
⚠ High-pressure donation requests immediately after a news event
⚠ Charity cannot show how donations are used
⚠ Contact came through social media or unsolicited call
🛡️ How to Protect Yourself
1. Verify charities on Charity Navigator (charitynavigator.org)
2. Look up the charity on the IRS Tax Exempt Organization Search
3. Give directly to established charities, not links in social media posts
4. Be wary of newly formed charities after disasters
5. Pay by credit card — never cash, gift card, or wire transfer
6. Research before giving, especially during emotional news events
📋 How to Report This Scam
Report to FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov and your state charity registration office.