What is a charity scam?
A charity scam is when scammers impersonate a legitimate charity organization in an attempt to steal money and personal information. These scams tend to contact you online or over-the-phone. They may pretend to be existing, well-known charities or lie and say you’ve already donated to them. Charity scams often increase following a crisis or emergency situation.
Warning signs of a charity scam
- The organization isn’t registered with DCP: If a charity is soliciting donations in Connecticut, they must be registered with the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection. Consumers can verify a charity's registration on eLicense
- The name is similar to well-known organizations: Scammers may try to trick you by using a similar name to well-known, or trusted organizations. Double check the spelling in their messaging and website.
- A message thanks you for a donation you don’t remember making: Sometimes, scams will pretend that you’ve already donated to them by sending out thank you notices. This is intended to trick to have consumers click on links or attachments.
- Refusing to provide details: Avoid charity organizations that refuse to provide information on its identity, mission, costs, and how the donation will be used.
- Uses high pressure tactics: Scammers will attempt to pressure you into donating immediately instead of giving you time to research.
- Ask for money through cash or wire transfer. Phony organizations may request donations in cash or wire transfer that make it hard to get your money back. Ask to use check or credit card as a more secure option.
Before you donate, be sure to:
- Research the organization. Look up the organization to make sure they are registered in Connecticut. Call the organization to confirm they are aware of the solicitation and has authorized the use of its name. If they claim to be collecting donations for the community, ask the local agency if they have heard of the group and are getting financial support.
- Keep a record of your donations. Know what organizations you’ve donated to and how much you’ve given. Make an annual donation plan so you know which charities you want to donate to.
- Know the difference between “tax exempt” and “tax deductible.” Tax exempt means the organization doesn’t have to pay taxes. Tax deductible means you can deduct your contribution on your federal income tax return.
- Donate through secured methods: Scammers request donations through cash or wire transfers to make it difficult to get your money back. It’s best to pay by a check made payable to the charity or by credit card. Never provide any personal information until you’ve researched the charity.
- If you donated through text messages, check your mobile phone bill: The charge should show up on your phone bill. If you've asked your mobile phone provider to block premium text messages, then you won't be able to donate this way.
If you think you’ve been a victim of a charity scam, file a complaint. Complaints help detect patterns of wrongdoing.
To file a complaint regarding a charity soliciting in Connecticut, consumer may email DCP.Investigations@ct.gov
To file a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission, please visit the Report Fraud page