Beware of Charity Scams: Tips for Donating Securely
Donating to a meaningful cause can have a positive impact on the community and feel great. Unfortunately, where there’s good, there can also be bad. Scammers thrive during seasons of giving, so it’s important to stay alert.
Here are some common scams to watch for before opening your wallet:
- The Sob Story: Ever seen an email or Facebook post about a sad, abandoned kitten with big, pleading eyes? Be cautious—this could be a scam. Thoroughly research the organization before donating.
- Pop-Up Charities: Watch out for fake charities. You can check its track record at Charity Navigator.
- “Phishy” Emails: Criminals like to pretend they're from legitimate charities and use your trust to steal your personal information and money. Remember to never share your account password with anyone.
- Pushy Telemarketers: Scam callers often use guilt or high-pressure tactics to make you donate. If someone is pressuring you over the phone, take a step back and hang up. Reputable charities won’t make you feel pressured to give.
- Sketchy Social Media Campaigns: Emotional social media campaigns can pull at your heartstrings. Double-check hashtags, research the organization, and confirm that the charity is legitimate before clicking “donate.”
If anything feels suspicious or you’re concerned about losing money to a scam, contact NorthCountry Federal Credit Union. Our team is here to help you keep your finances secure.