Charity
Charity Fraud
Someone asks for a donation to a cause or disaster relief, but the charity isn't real.
How it works
After a hurricane, wildfire, or other disaster, or around the holidays, you get calls, texts, or emails asking for donations. The charity may have a name close to a real one, and they push you to give right now by card or gift card. The money goes to the scammer, not to any cause. Real charities are happy to let you give later after you check them.
Warning signs
- Pressure to donate immediately
- Thanks you for a past gift you don't remember making
- Name is close to a well-known charity but not quite
- Asks for gift cards, wire, or cryptocurrency
- Vague about how the money will be used
- Appears right after a disaster in the news
The newer AI trick
AI can quickly build convincing charity websites and write heartfelt appeals with real disaster details to seem legitimate.
What to do
- Do not give on the spot; take time to check.
- Look up the charity at give.org or charitynavigator.org.
- Pay by check or credit card, never gift cards.
- Give directly through the charity's own website.
If they are still on the line: Do not donate or share card details on the spot. Tell them you will research and give directly if you choose. Real charities accept a donation later.
How to report it
Report to the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov or 1-877-382-4357, and to your state charity regulator. For elder-specific help, call the DOJ Elder Fraud Hotline at 1-833-372-8311.