In the wake of Hurricanes Helene and Milton, individuals nationwide are contributing to storm relief efforts, with many making monetary donations to charities claiming to assist affected communities.
The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is urging the public to exercise caution to avoid falling victim to charity scams that often emerge after such disasters.
The FTC advises donors to contribute only to charities they know and trust, particularly those with a proven track record in disaster response.
Before donating, individuals should thoroughly research organizations, especially if solicitation comes through social media platforms. Verifying the legitimacy of a charity helps ensure that donations reach the intended beneficiaries.
Potential donors are encouraged to inquire about how much of their contribution will directly support those in need. Understanding the allocation of funds can provide insight into the charity’s operations and effectiveness.
The FTC also warns against donating to entities that insist on payments via cash, gift cards, wire transfers, or cryptocurrencies, as these methods offer little recourse if fraud occurs.
Instead, the agency recommends using credit cards, which provide added protections against unauthorized charges.
Caution is also advised when considering donations to individuals on crowdfunding sites. Donors should contribute only to campaigns run by people they know personally and can verify, the FTC said.
Reviewing the crowdfunding platform’s policies on fraud and accountability can offer additional safeguards.
For those opting to donate via text message, the FTC emphasizes the importance of confirming the number before sending funds.
Donors should visit the official website of the charity or contact them directly to ensure the text number is legitimate, thereby reducing the risk of falling prey to phishing scams.
As relief efforts continue, the FTC’s guidelines aim to protect well-meaning donors from fraudulent schemes that exploit humanitarian crises.
By adhering to these recommendations, individuals can contribute confidently, knowing their donations will effectively aid those impacted by the hurricanes.
