Ukraine charity scams

In times of different crises and natural disasters, scammers inevitably pop up all over the world in hope someone will want to help those in need. Since the conflict between Russia and Ukraine broke out, a vast number of alleged charity funds have appeared, and the number of victims of Ukraine relief scam is incalculable.

It’s certainly difficult to spot a bogus charity; however, there are some red flags you can watch out for before donating not to be hooked by cybercriminals.

WHAT TACTICS CON ARTISTS APPLY

They either create a site that mimics the site of an existing legitimate charity fund or pose themselves as a charity, which actually has nothing to do with Ukraine. Often they don’t even make a site; rogue solicitors thrive in social media like Instagram, Facebook, or YouTube. They can also reach you by email or over the phone, even in person. Of course a scammer would likely opt for an untraceable payment method; moreover, most probably they will push you to donate as soon as possible so you have no chance to do any research.

IT MUST STRIKE YOU AS SUSPICIOUS IF:

o The fundraisers ask you to use only unusual payment methods that make it harder for you to return the money if need be: cash, money wire, cryptocurrencies or gift cards.

o They create a sense of urgency to make you act immediately; to do this, they can try to make you feel guilty for not wanting to help.

o They make a lot of beautiful and vague claims but can’t explain how your funds will be used. A reputable charity will be able to provide this information.

o They market themselves too intrusively, even aggressively.

o On their website there are lots of spelling errors and typos.

o The supposed organization doesn’t have a site at all; they contacted you only over the phone or by email, but you failed to find their web page.

o They insist on the payment by clicking on a link embedded in the email.

WHAT DO I DO TO AVOID A RELIEF SCAM?

☑ Verify information about the charity before you donate. Sites like Give.org, Charity Watch or Charity Navigator can help you with it.

☑ Pay by credit card or checks. These methods offer greater consumer protections in case the fundraiser turns out to be a scammer.

☑ Try to do some research online to see what people write about this charity fund. It’s a good idea to check if there are news and reviews linking the organization to fraud.

☑ If someone introduces themselves as a representative of a legit and highly rated charity, contact the management of that organization to make sure the data that individual provides are real and the money will reach the right hands.

☑ Never send your credit / debit card number or other personal and financial information to a stranger.

☑ Don't pay by just clicking on a link on a site or in an email.

☑ Be alert and keep your head! If you feel the alleged fundraiser’s trying to manipulate you, induce guilt in you and persuade to pay on the spot, better listen to your intuition. A trustworthy charity is ready to accept donations at any time and wouldn’t stoop to such tactics.

If you really want to become a donor and help people in need, but have at least a slightest doubt about the legitimacy of this or that organization, better consider donating through someone else. And if you fell victim to such a scam and you think Russian con artists are involved it this, don’t hesitate to contact us:

Tel: +7 909 961-19-09
Email: legalsolutions@inbox.ru
Visit us: Moscow, Zubovskiy bulvar, building 4/1, office 308