Disaster Relief Scams is the topic we wish to warn you about this week. Last week we discussed the danger of scams including travel scams. Scams can be treacherous and unfortunately it’s easy to get taken in by organizations that we trust, especially charities. It’s virtually impossible to see massive destruction in the news and hear the heart breaking stories of lost lives without being moved. We’re primed to open our wallets and donate, often without doing our due diligence. This makes us ripe for disaster relief scams.
According to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre Canadians gave $70 million to scammers last year and the second most popular scam was the Disaster Relief Scam Charity Fraud. As soon as a new disaster strikes, charities seem to spring up like weeds in the garden, aggressively going after your donation dollars. Thirty charity websites were created within 48 hours of a devastating tornado in Oklahoma and only three appeared to be legitimate, according to TheDomains.com, a U.S. group which monitors domain name activity. A year after Hurricane Katrina hit, the FBI estimated 4,000 fake websites had been set up. Canada has government agencies such as the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre trying to stay on top of scams of all types, but it’s a herculean task. As you see, disaster relief scams are very popular.
How can you protect yourself from Disaster Relief Scams?
- Don’t get taken in by an “urgent plea”. This is a common ploy of disaster relief scams. Take the time to do your due diligence. Check out the charity and make sure that they are legitimate before donating.
- Avoid donating to door-to-door canvassers and never give cash. Charities have websites with an e-donate feature which is much safer.
- org is a fundraising platform for donating to legitimate charities. They’ve already done the research for you.
- Give to an organization that has a track record in international aid such as the Canadian Red Cross, Salvation Army and Doctors Without Borders.
Scams, including disaster relief scams, have invaded the fabric of our lives and we must remain diligent. Many people have lost their life savings and their homes as a result of scams, so stay alert and stay informed. If you’re experiencing serious financial difficulties as a result of being scammed or for any reason, you need professional help as soon as possible. Contact Ira Smith Trustee & Receiver Inc. for immediate action and the right plan for you. We can help and Starting Over, Starting Now you can be well on your return to financial health.