Some solicitations should send immediate red flags. The solicitor offers to send a courier to collect your contribution. You receive an invoice or bill for a pledge you never made. The organization's name and logo closely resemble another charity with a similar purpose. Bogus charities frequently use names that resemble those ofwell-known, legitimate organizations.
Fake charities frequentlysurface after national emergencies or natural disasters.
The onlyway to be sure a charity is legitimate is to do some research beforeyou give. Donors have the right to ask as many questions as necessary tomake an informed decision about whether or not to donate. If thecharity you are considering resists answering your questions, don't give. Remember, call before you write the check.