INDIANAPOLIS — Refugee centers in Indianapolis are preparing for the potential that Afghan refugees could relocate here, and donations are pouring in to support people in need.
But there's a warning for Hoosiers looking to help: Scammers are trying to take advantage of your generosity.
There are several ways to make sure your money goes where it's needed most.
The crises in Afghanistan, Tennessee flooding and the earthquake in Haiti are inspiring many to donate money — and when people want to donate, out come the scammers.
"We're seeing a lot of American generosity at play, in terms of interests and wanting to give to these organizations," said Bennett Weiner, executive vice president at Better Business Bureau's Wise Giving Alliance.
This leads to fake posts, triggering the BBB to issue a warning.
"They sometimes go to crowdfunding sites to give to a particular individual. The problem with that is that crowdfunding sites don't always vet individuals significantly enough," said Weiner.
The BBB says scammers are using QR codes to trick people into opening malicious links.
"They may even use the name of a well-known charity that you're familiar with. Recommendation is not to do it. If you want to make a donation to a recognizable charity that you know, go directly to the charity's website and make the donation there," Weiner said.
Before you donate, watch out for these three red flags provided by the BBB:
- Watch out for pressure to give on the spot. Legitimate charities will welcome your support any time.
- Watch out for claims that 100% is going to go to assist victims. Most credible organizations have administrative costs.
- Beware of charities without an established presence in the country they're serving.
"Check out the organization before you give after you've made the donation," Weiner said. "It's very difficult — if not impossible — to recover funds once they've been transferred."
If you need help vetting a charity, check out The Better Business Bureau's website.
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