SCAMS BULLETIN Host Jay White is an inactive attorney in San Mateo County, California.

September 19, 2020

DISASTER SCAMMERS

Shameless scammers prey on your kindness during disasters. They want to  help themselves to your money.

People have lost their livelihoods from wildfires, hurricanes, civil unrest and a global pandemic that has claimed its own devastating share of deaths and cost

Scammers are competing with legitimate charities, attempting to take advantage of your generosity. So, as you open your heart and wallet to help people and causes, be sure to consider these tips for safe giving:

*Never let anyone rush you into donating. Pressuring you to act right away is something that scammers do.

*Do not assume the charity appeals you see online or on social media are legitimate, even if someone you know sends them to you. If a group sounds legit, know that some scammers use names that sound like real charities, only they are not.

*Before you donate, research the name of the organization or cause. Search their name online, plus the words “scam,” “fraud,” or “complaint.”

*Find out if the charity or fundraiser is registered in your state. Check with your state’s charity regulator to find out. If the charity is not registered it likely is not legitimate.

To find more tips on how to spot and avoid charity scams go to ftc.gov/charity. And if you think you have spotted a fake charity, report it to the FTC at ftc.gov/complaint.

ATTRIBUTION: Federal Trade Commission

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