Charity Scams
Americans lost $12.5 billion to fraud in 2024, according to the FTC.
Quick Answer
Charity scams exploit donor generosity by creating fake charities or impersonating real ones, stealing millions of dollars intended for those in need; in 2024, the FBI received over 4,500 complaints reporting approximately $96 million in losses to this fraud.
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How It Works
1
Scammers create a fake charity or impersonate a legitimate, well-known organization. They often use names that sound very similar to real charities and may illegally use logos of reputable organizations to build a sense of trust and legitimacy.
2
Fraudsters contact potential donors through various methods, including email, social media, crowdfunding platforms, and cold calls. These solicitations often feature emotionally compelling stories, especially in the wake of natural disasters, conflicts, or other high-profile tragedies, to create a sense of urgency.
3
The scammer pressures the victim for an immediate donation. They often request payment through unconventional methods that are difficult to trace and recover, such as wire transfers, gift cards, or cryptocurrency, ensuring the stolen funds cannot be reclaimed.
Red Flags
- Requests for donations in cash, by gift card, wire transfer, or cryptocurrency.
- High-pressure tactics that demand you donate immediately.
- Vague or evasive answers about how donations will be used or what percentage goes to the cause.
- A charity name that is very similar to a well-known, legitimate organization.
- The solicitor cannot provide detailed information about the charity's mission, finances, or proof of its tax-exempt status.
- Unsolicited donation requests received through email, text message, or social media from an organization you are not familiar with.
- Claims that 100% of all donations go directly to the cause, as all charities have administrative costs.
What to Do If Targeted
- Never donate using cash, gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfer. Always use a secure payment method like a credit card or check.
- Do not click on links or open attachments in unsolicited emails or text messages asking for donations.
- Verify the charity's legitimacy before donating. Use resources like the BBB Wise Giving Alliance (Give.org), Charity Navigator, and CharityWatch to research the organization.
- Check the IRS's Tax Exempt Organization Search tool to confirm a charity's tax-exempt status.
- Be cautious of similar-sounding names. Scammers often use names that are close to those of well-known, reputable organizations.
- If you are solicited, ask specific questions about how your donation will be used and request written information about the charity's programs and finances.
How to Report It
- FTC — File a fraud report with the Federal Trade Commission if you encounter or lose money to a charity scam.
- FBI IC3 — Report fraudulent charities and internet crimes to the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center.
- FCC — File a complaint about phone scams, robocalls, or unwanted calls with the Federal Communications Commission.
- AARP Fraud Helpline — Call 877-908-3360 for free support from trained fraud specialists. Available to anyone, not just AARP members.
Key Statistics
- In 2024, the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) received more than 4,500 complaints related to fraudulent charities and disaster relief campaigns, with reported losses of approximately $96 million. — FBI IC3 2025
- Americans reported losing over $300 million to charity scams in 2023 alone. — Federal Trade Commission (FTC) 2024
- Nearly 60% of charity scam reports come from individuals aged 55 and older, indicating scammers frequently target this demographic. — Internal Study Data 2025
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Frequently Asked Questions
To verify a charity's legitimacy, research it using independent online tools like the BBB Wise Giving Alliance (Give.org), Charity Navigator, and CharityWatch. You can also confirm its tax-exempt status using the IRS's Tax Exempt Organization Search tool. Legitimate charities will be transparent about their mission and how they use donations.
Scammers prefer payment methods that are difficult to trace and reverse, such as wire transfers, gift cards, and cryptocurrency. Legitimate charities typically accept donations via credit card and check. Paying by credit card offers the most protection against fraud.
Yes, charity fraud schemes are especially prevalent after high-profile disasters, such as hurricanes, earthquakes, or during seasonal giving periods like the holidays. Scammers exploit the public's desire to help during these events by creating fake donation campaigns.
While anyone can be a victim, scammers often target older adults. One study found that nearly 60% of charity scam reports came from individuals aged 55 and above. Scammers prey on their emotions and desire to help those in need.
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