Scam Library

Charity Scams

Especially common after a widely reported disaster, a solicitation arrives asking for donations to help victims, with a name similar to a well-known real charity, and pressure to donate immediately.

Warning signs

What to watch for

A charity name that sounds similar to, but isn't quite, a well-known organization
Pressure to donate immediately, often by gift card or wire transfer
Vague answers about how the donation will be used
Unsolicited contact right after a major disaster is in the news

Stay safe

How to verify

Look up the charity independently on a charity-evaluation site before donating
Donate directly through the charity's official website rather than a link in an email or text

Already sent money or shared a password?

Contact your bank using the number on the back of your card, or the official number on your statement — not any number from the suspicious message.

Not sure if something you received matches this pattern?

Check a Message