This video provides tips to help you donate wisely and avoid charity scams. It emphasizes the importance of researching charities before giving to make sure make sure your donation is going to help the cause and the people you care about.
Transcript
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It's really upsetting when I hear of scammers trying to pose as a legitimate organization.
Unfortunately, we've heard stories of look alike charities, look alike nonprofits, who are pretending to be reputable organizations and asking unsuspecting individuals for money. And unfortunately, they've been successful.
It hurts my heart to realize that there are actually people out there who are willing to take advantage of innocent people. And to try to take away another child's blessing only for greed.
The scammers are sophisticated. And they're preying upon people's desires to make a contribution that will make a difference.
And you've got good people out there in the world that want to donate, that want to give, and want to support these families. And then you've got people out there that are taking advantage of that situation. These families going through the hardships, they look forward to something positive.
These scams must be stopped. And you can help by just doing a little bit of research.
If anyone calls and ask you to make a charitable donation by wire transfer, by prepaid card-- stop. That's an immediate red flag. Ask questions about how your money is going to be used. Where are you located? Who exactly are you? And how much of my money is going to go directly to that program?
Go to ftc.gov/charity. You'll find the information you need on how to conduct the research, and, also, tips on how to avoid scams. Make sure your donation counts.