Beware fake charitable organizations asking for your money to help victims

It saddens us all greatly to witness the tragedies that unfolded in the Orlando area this week. As humans, we all want to do what we can to help. Being a good distance away from the scene, often our assistance is provided through funding various support and recovery efforts.

However, be aware that after any large-scale event like this one, often the con artists are the first to set up shop. Don’t give money to just anyone. Instead: 

• Stay on the alert and be safe online.
• Be wary of crowd-funding web sites.
• Be on the lookout for fraudulent charitable organization web pages (check URLs carefully).
• Validate the organization that you donate to—do your research first; ask how they intend to spend the money.
• Don’t click links in emails or text messages you receive asking you to give; instead, you navigate to the charity of your choice.
• Always: check URLs, verify message senders, and think before you click.

For more information and how to avoid being conned, see:

• Watch Out for Charity Scams in Wake of the Orlando Shooting
• NBC Los Angeles Donation Scam Warning After Orlando Nightclub Shooting (1 min. video)
• Better Business Bureau Scam Alerts