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Fraudsters are well known to take advantage of global events and incidents, and the current conflict between Russia and Ukraine as well as Israel and Gaza is no exception. With a growing number of fundraisers and charities supporting efforts to protect the vulnerable populations embroiled in the situation, scammers are hiding in plain sight and playing on the compassion of people.

Scammers use a variety of methods to obtain their ill-gotten gains. They may simply ask for money with no intention of sending it to their proposed destination, or impersonate public figures running fake fundraising campaigns. You may even receive a “gift” or product in return for sending your money in order to make the donation appear legitimate.

Email and messaging services are a popular choice for scammers to conduct their cons but they may even use voice calls, fraudulent online advertisements and websites. It’s important to take your time before transacting with an individual or organisation. It can be difficult to identify charity scams but the following tips will help you to prevent becoming a victim:

  • It is highly recommended to use established, registered charities – They will be better placed to ensure that the money you donate achieves its intended objective. 

    • You can check if a charity is registered by clicking here: UK
      Isle of Man
  • Never click on the links or attachments in suspicious emails or respond to unsolicited messages asking for personal or financial details - even if they are in the name of a charity.

    • Instead of clicking on a link, type in the address of the charity's website and look for the registered charity number there.
  • Avoid clicking on links and advertisements without looking at other sources, social media is commonly used by scammers running adverts.

  • Never answer a call or message that requests personal or financial information from strangers.

  • Any online ads that only display a mobile number should be avoided.

  • Reject requests to make donations via money transfer services; these are common scams.

  • Donate only to online fundraising pages run by reputable individuals or businesses that you are familiar with. If in doubt, get in touch with the charity straight away.

  • If you think you are the victim of a fraudulent charity, contact your bank immediately and report it to us.

Forward your suspicious emails to our Suspicious Email Reporting Service (SERS) at sers@ocsia.im – More about the SERS and be found here: www.ocsia.im/sers

Topics

  • Charity Scams
  • Charity