(Hartford, CT) — Attorney General William Tong and Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection Commissioner Michelle H. Seagull released guidance for charitable giving during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Scam artists often look for ways to take advantage of the public’s desire to help one another during trying times or emergencies, like the COVID-19 outbreak. Before making a donation, citizens should check the facts and receive accurate information from a reputable source.
“Bad actors are always looking for new ways to take advantage of people’s generosity, especially during emergencies like the COVID-19 outbreak. It’s crucial for citizens to know how to recognize and report a scam so we can take action against these scam artists. Before making a charitable donation, make sure you know who you are talking to and how your donation will be used. If you receive a suspicious phone call, text message or email, contact my office at 860-808-5000,” said Attorney General Tong.
"In Connecticut and around the world, so many people have volunteered time and money to support families affected by the COVID-19 outbreak," said Consumer Protection Commissioner Seagull. "Unfortunately, scammers also try to take advantage of our good nature when we're trying to help others. If anyone solicits donations from you out of nowhere, tugs at your heartstrings, and won't give details about what their organization is working on - it's a scam. Now, more than ever, it's important that we remain vigilant and ensure that our hard-earned money is used as effectively as possible."
The Charitable Giving During the COVID-19 Pandemic Guidance is available here.
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Media Contacts:
Office of the Attorney General
Elizabeth Benton
Elizabeth.Benton@ct.gov
860-214-0937 (cell)
Department of Consumer Protection
Lora Rae Anderson
LoraRae.Anderson@ct.gov
860-247-8711 (cell)