Sure, they know they should give when they're good and ready, not when some guy without a last name demands it. Thus do scammists prosper. The Fairfax County Fire and Rescue Department has become so concerned about the epidemic of phone scamming this spring that it issued a press release late last month. No legitimate charity will refuse a check. Don't succumb to pressure.
Legitimate charities welcome gifts given at a later date.
If you're uncomfortable or suspicious about a solicitation, be sure that the organization is registered with your state's attorney general before you contribute. Do what Mike did. If a solicitor says he's representing a public safety charity, check with the agency to see whether they've ever heard of the solicitor. Lorenzo M. Thrower , of the Fairfax Fire and Rescue public affairs office, said his agency's legitimate fundraisers include an aluminum can drive for burned children and a 5K race. In the meantime, let me recommend the age-old Bob Levey scam detection method.