That charity may not be what it seems
- Kim Thompson: Better Business Bureau
- November 9, 2020
- 921
BBB ScamTracker received reports about alleged charities using tactics consumers believe are shady schemes to solicit donations. If an organization isn’t a charity, then the contributions are not “donations” and cannot be deducted from your taxes.
An unsolicited call shows up on the Caller ID from someone claiming to be representing a nonprofit organization. In some cases the “charity” has a name that includes a law-enforcement word (“police,” “trooper” and such). There are plenty of variations on this scam. The caller explains that the goal of this nonprofit is to help keep police officers, their families or even police dogs safe.
The organization’s goals may seem noble, but it is recommended to research the organization before making a pledge. A previous BBB investigation revealed many red flags about one of these groups including the fact contributions are not tax-deductible and no information is available on the organization’s president, board members and active chapters. According to tax records, only a small fraction of donations made to the organization actually support law-enforcement officers. This is just one example of how fundraisers can look and sound like a charity but actually be lining the pockets of opportunists.
If you begin asking specific questions about the organization or how the money will be used, the caller may not answer or you may be told to call a different number where your questions also are deflected or evaded. Callers often use intimidation tactics or try to make you feel guilty about not supporting their cause. Don’t fall for it. It’s all a way to get your credit card information and a donation.
Research before donating. If a nonprofit organization isn’t completely transparent, it’s impossible to know for sure the money contributed will support a good cause. Ask for documentation on how much of the contribution will be used for program services, for the fundraising and their management expenses.
Don’t give in to intimidation tactics. If a caller has you feeling discomfort through guilt or using an urgent plea to give right this minute, it’s best to simply hang up. Intimidation tactics are often used by scammers and are a red flag.
Check the charity’s rating on Give.org. For a charity to receive BBB accreditation, it must meet 20 Standards of Accountability covering everything from governance to fundraising. If the organization does not appear on BBB’s website, this does not mean they are not a real charity, but it can be a warning you need to do more investigation before you give.
Give locally. Contact your local or state/provincial law-enforcement agency and ask how you can support them. Most agencies have a nonprofit “Friends of” type organization and will be happy to refer you to a more worthwhile option.
Visit the BBB Wise Giving Alliance website at www.Give.org for more information on charitable giving.
If you’ve been the victim of a charity scam, help others avoid the same fate by reporting your experience at www.BBB.org/ScamTracker. Your report can help others to spot a scam before it’s too late.
Visit www.bbb.org/canton or call 330-454-9401 to look up a business, file a complaint, write a customer review, read tips, follow on social media and more.