Scammers May Use Pandemic, Giving Tuesday To Swindle: Report

Annapolis MD

30 November, 2020

8:19 PM

Description

ANNAPOLIS, MD — Dec. 1 is Giving Tuesday, an international day of giving. With countless communities shook by the coronavirus pandemic, organizations are recruiting extra donors. That leaves many Marylanders willing to open their pocketbooks, but fraudsters can prey on these emotions. State officials warned residents to keep an eye out for these scams. "Emergencies such as the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic often bring out the best in people," Attorney General Brian Frosh said in a press release. "Unfortunately, these uncertain times also can bring out the worst in people, particularly those seeking to profit from the misfortune of others." The pandemic isn't the only thing driving scams. The holidays are usually ripe with fraud, leaderns cautioned. "During the holiday season, scam artists abound," Secretary of State John Wobensmith said in the release. "They steal hard-earned cash from unsuspecting donors." What To Look Out For The officials offered these tips to avoid scams: Do some research before you give. Visit an online resource such as Charity Navigator (www.charitynavigator.org) that can give you in-depth information on thousands of charities. You can also search the name of a charity online to see if it's been reported as a scam. Search the name of the charity plus "complaint," "review," "rating," or "scam." If you find red flags, it might be best to find another organization. Just because your friend on social media posts about a charity doesn't mean it's legitimate. Do your own research using the tools described here. Call or contact your friend offline and ask about the post and what they know about the charity. If a telemarketer calls you asking for a donation by phone, don't agree to give right away. Ask questions first, such as how much of your donation goes to the program, how the organization carries out its mission, what percentage of money it collects is used for program services, whether contributions are tax-deductible, and how much goes to fundraising and administration. Ask the caller to send you information by email or mail before you decide. (If they refuse, this is a red flag that the "charity" may not be legitimate and they are trying to scam you.) Watch out for names that only look like well-known charities – but aren't. Fake charities are hoping that you mistake them for the real deal. Pay close attention to the name and their logo (if they use one), and make sure that the charity you are donating to is the one you intended to give to. Checking Legitimacy Maryland keeps a database of charities registered in the state. Residents can see if a supposed nonprofit is legitimate by searching this website. "I strongly urge Marylanders to research a charity before donating," Frosh said. "Avoid any charity or fundraiser that does not provide information on how donations are used." Where To Report Scams Anybody who thinks they may have fell victim to a charity fraud or scam can email [email protected] or call 410-974-5534. "We urge donors to be on the alert for scam artists who may use the convergence of the pandemic and the holiday season as an opportunity to fleece you from your hard-earned cash," Wobensmith said. RELATED: Patch Holiday Food Drive In Anne Arundel: Give To Feeding AmericaMD Food Bank Needs Donations, Volunteers As Giving Tuesday NearsScammers Target Older Residents In Anne Arundel County: PoliceScam Alert: Callers Spoof Police, Claim Charges Filed Against You Have a story idea? Please contact me at [email protected] with any pitches, tips or questions. Follow me on Twitter @JacobBaumgart and on Facebook @JacobBaumgartJournalist to stay up-to-date with the latest Anne Arundel County and Prince George's County news.