dana bashorCharitable organizations raise billions of dollars each year to support social program, community groups and causes. Each recognized charity represents a large potential pool of “free money”, so phony charitable organizations become a vehicle for scam artists worldwide.

Fake charities have become very good at scamming their victims. They often use telemarketing, direct mail or a combination of both to defraud their victims. It’s easy to become a victim of fraud by a fake charity, so here are some tips to help you avoid donating your dollars to scam artists.

Work only with recognized charities. There are literally thousands of charitable organizations, so determining which ones are legitimate may require a little research.  If a telemarketer calls asking for a donation, ask for the name of the charity.  Write down the name of the charity and ask them to call back later so you can consider their request.  If you’re thinking of donating, check out the charity using the Charity Navigator, GuideStar, the Better Business Bureau’s Wise Giving Alliance or the American Institute of Philanthropy.  If the charity doesn’t turn up in one of these resources, or can’t provide you with a Federal Employer Identification Number (FEIN), you could be dealing with a scam artist.

Avoid giving cash gifts.  Instead write a check or make a donation by credit card. If the charity turns out to be a fake, you may have some recourse. Get a receipt or acknowledgment from the charity showing that your donation is tax deductible.

Ask questions. Some scam artists greet you on the phone and imply (or outright state) that you have a giving history with their fake charity.  If you don’t recall giving a gift to the organization, ask for more information about your past donor activity.

Planet Antares Scam Solutions suggests asking the solicitor whether or not they work directly for the organization they’re seeking donations for, or if they work for a third-party.  If they work for a third-party, ask what percentage of the gift will be given to the organization whose name they’re using to solicit funds.  If you’re concerned, call the organization directly and ask if they’re aware that charitable donations are being solicited in their name.

When responding to a crisis or disaster, planet antares scam solutions suggests giving only to the charities you recognize. Time is often essential in the days and weeks following a catastrophe and scam artists know that they have a limited window in which to operate. Be exceptionally careful when donating to relief operations. Subject these solicitations to the same scrutiny that you would apply in non-emergency situations.

This insightful information and these tips were provided courtesy of Dana Bashor Charity. Read more about the dana bashor charity website at DanaBashorCharity.org.