Nothing brings out the scammer bottom-feeders like an emotional tragedy. The Aurora, Colo., theater shootings are a case in point. Charity fraud is a very real danger for those who are moved to contribute to such causes. The Better Business Bureau is warning that givers should use care to be sure they are helping this very worthwhile cause rather than putting money into the hands of charity fraudsters.
Scammers can quickly and easily put polished, legitimate appearing websites online in an attempt to lure emotionally engaged contributors. They are capable of mailing pleas for money, calling with sincere-sounding appeals and appearing on doorsteps as well as in shopping areas. Especially suspect are pleas with long-winded emotional “wind ups” followed by scanty details regarding the specifics of where your money will go and how it will be put to use.
Rather than letting fear of charity fraud keep you from giving to help the victims in Aurora, use these guidelines to assure that your gift is going precisely where it is needed:
• Do some simple research. Verify the fundraiser’s legitimacy by doing some online searches. Check out their contact information and look to see that this specific fund or organization has been publicized by news outlets.
• On-the-spot donations to solicitors are not recommended. Instead, take down their information on who they are and invest a few minutes in verifying it.
• Consider the tax issues. The IRS rules, requirements and standards for traditional charitable organizations do not apply to individuals. Such donations are not usually tax deductible if that is an issue for you. There may be complications as well for the individual recipient of direct donations as opposed to donations received through tax-exempt charitable organizations.
• Watch out for charities that have very similar sounding names as well known charities. It may be an attempt to confuse donors into thinking they are in fact giving to the charitable organization with the famous name.
• Don’t donate over the phone. It is too difficult to verify that the person on the other end is who they say they are. Donate either at the organization or by mail to a verified address or on a secure website.
• Don’t pay with cash. Use a check or credit card. Never pay with a wire transfer of funds.
• Refuse any high-pressure appeal. If they are legit they can wait a day or two for your donation.
• Check out the charity with the BBB.
The stories of the victims of the Aurora shooting are heart wrenching. Some of the victims are unable to pay enormous medical bills. Many are touched by their plight and wish to help. According to news reports over $2 million has been contributed. Be sure that your donation is going where you intend for it to go. Use the above guidelines when giving so that real victims are helped, not scam charity fraudsters. Call the BBB with any questions or concerns at 800-856-2417 or visit online at www.kansasplains.org.