How Can I Protect Myself Against Charitable Donation Scams?
Remember: It’s your money. You have the right to ask questions and think carefully before making a donation.
Ask questions before you donate
Genuine charities will be happy to answer your questions.
- Ask how much of your gift will be used directly for the charitable work.
- Ask how much will go toward administrative costs.
- Ask for a tax receipt, and
- Ask the charitable registration number.
Be cautious
- If you receive a telephone call or someone comes to the door, ask for the information to be sent to you in the mail before you donate.
- Never give out personal or financial information over the phone or at the door.
- Beware of anyone who presses you to contribute immediately. Real charities don’t use high-pressure tactics.
- Phony fundraisers use copycat names to imitate real charities. Check names in your phone book or online.
- Never give cash. Make cheques payable to the charity’s full name.
- Beware of anyone who thanks you for a pledge you don’t remember. This is a common trick used by swindlers.
- Be cautious if you are asked for spare change or donations from individuals sitting at a table located in a public place, such as a mall. Ask questions about how your contribution will be used, what the organization’s registered charity number is and for identification so that you can be sure the staff at the table work for the charity they represent.
If you suspect that a charity is a scam, check the Canada Revenue Agency website for listing of registered Canadian charities, or contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501 and your local police.
