Fake Charity Scams

The spirit of giving during the holidays makes people more vulnerable to fake charity scams. Criminals may set up phony organizations claiming to be related to well‑known charities and promise tax deductions if you donate. These scams often come through social media posts, unsolicited email, or crowdfunding sites.

Fraudsters use this tactic to capture personal and financial information, which can lead to identity theft or unauthorized charges. Before donating, verify that the charity is legitimate by searching the IRS’s tax‑exempt organization database or using reputable resources that provide information on tax‑deductible donations.

A genuine charity will have a valid Employer Identification Number (EIN) and will be transparent about how donations are used.