Also, be wary of charities offering to send a courier to collect your donation. Get something in writing, get phone numbers and step away. Checklist for charity invitations Ask the caller to identify himself or herself clearly and ask whom he or she works for. If the solicitor refuses, just hang up. Watch out for names that resemble legitimate organizations but are somehow different.
Some phony charities use names that sound similar to legitimate charities.
Don't be swayed by emotional appeals and don't give under pressure. Legitimate fund-raisers won't push you to give on the spot. Be wary of charities offering to send a courier to collect your donation. If you are suspicious of an organization, contact your state attorney general. Ask the caller for written information about the organization, including written information and name, address and phone number.