Orlando Charity Scams

Orlando Charity Scams are starting and expected to rise after the tragic shooting in Orlando, Florida. Here are a few tips to keep you from being scammed. The IRS said there are a number of fake-charity scams in reaction to the shooting that killed 49 and injured 53 last Sunday. Note that such fraudulent schemes may involve contact by telephone, social media, e-mail or in-person solicitations.

According to a report by CBS MoneyWatch’s Brooke Niemeyer, the Better Business Bureau expects we’ll see fraudulent sites and other scams appear in the wake of the Orlando shooting. Holly Salmons, President and CEO of the Better Business Bureau serving Central Florida, was quoted from a press release saying, “Scammers depend on heightened emotion and often follow closely behind tragic events.” So yes, in the wake of the Orlando shooting, scammers will most likely be trying to take advantage of the kindness of people who want to help victims and their familes.

I have a page about charity scams in the membership area, but since the Orlando shooting just occurred and people will be trying to take advantage of people, I wanted to share some advice based on the advice provided in the CBS article to help people be aware.

• Watch for vague appeals. It is a red flag if the site doesn’t explain how they intend to use the funds being donated.
• Check for government registration. Most states require charities to register with a state government agency before soliciting.
• Family funds don’t have to register, however the Better Business Bureau says to make sure the money is received and administered by a third party such as a bank, CPA, or lawyer.
• Watch for transparency. A charity should clearly account for all funds they receive and how the funds are used.

IRS tips to avoid scams include:

• Donate to recognized charities.
• Be wary of charities with names that are similar to familiar or nationally known organizations. Some phony charities use names or websites that sound or look like those of respected, legitimate organizations.
• Don’t give out personal financial information such as Social Security numbers or credit card and bank account numbers and passwords to anyone who solicits a contribution.
• Don’t give or send cash
• Bogus websites might solicit funds for victims of this tragedy. These sites frequently mimic the sites of, or use names similar to those of, legitimate charities, or they claim to be affiliated with legitimate charities in order to persuade people to send money or provide personal financial information that can be used to steal identities or financial resources.
• Additionally, scammers often send emails that steer recipients to bogus websites that appear to be affiliated with legitimate charitable causes.

If you want to help victims and their families, seek out reputable charities and don’t fall for unsolicited e-mails and phone calls. Don’t fall for an Orlando charity scam or any other. Some people just don’t give because they have been ripped off by these scum that prey on good-hearted people. That’s sad. There are people that can really use, and really appreciate the help in times of crisis and tragedy. I hope people will continue to give, but do so with caution. Exercise prudence before you give and do some research to ensure your money is going to a legitimate charity that uses the money received wisely.

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