Some organizations use names that sound similar to charities you know and trust, and others may misrepresent how your donation will be used. Check out charities before making a donation. Ask questions and gather information so that you know how your donation will be use and who will be using it. Avoid charitable requests that come by email. These solicitors are difficult to trace, and may use your credit card or bank account information fraudulently.
Some bogus charities use names that sound like well-respected organizations.
Never give credit-card or checking account numbers over the phone unless you initiated the call. Do not give cash donations. Be aware that there could be problems with a charity-even without complaints on file. Having your identity stolen can devastate your good credit and can require endless hours of telephone and written communication to resolve. When an imposter obtains your personal identifying information such as your Social Security number, bank or credit card account numbers, that imposter can assume your identity.