Scam warning
Fake Charity
After a hurricane, a wildfire or a war, or around the holidays, scammers ask for donations to fake charities. They may use names that sound like real ones, or say they help veterans, police or sick children.
Also called: Charity scam, Disaster relief scam, Fake veterans charity
The one thing to remember
Give to charities you already know, and give on their real website, never through someone who called you.
How it happens
- Someone calls, texts or comes to the door asking for donations.
- The name sounds almost like a well-known charity.
- They push you to give right now, by cash, gift card or wire.
- They may say you already pledged money last year.
Warning signs
- Pressure to give right away.
- Asking for cash, gift cards, crypto or wire transfers.
- Thanking you for a donation you don't remember making.
- Vague answers about how the money is used.
What to do
- Say “Please send me information in the mail.” Real charities will.
- Check a charity at Give.org or CharityNavigator.org.
- Pay by check or credit card, made out to the charity itself.
Last checked: October 31, 2026