Charity and Disaster-Relief Fraud on the Rise During the Holiday Season
As the holiday season gets into full swing, the FBI is warning the public about an increase in charity and disaster-relief fraud, saying scammers frequently use natural disasters, emergencies, and crises to solicit moneys.
People and groups running scams often make their pitches after major disasters, posing as legitimate charities or relief organizations to collect donations that never reach those in need, according to federal investigators.
‘Tis the season for giving and charity #fraud. Beware of scammers who want to exploit your kindness—they only care about themselves. Before you donate to causes you care about this #GivingTuesday, research charities to confirm their legitimacy and follow these essential tips from… pic.twitter.com/NpWEcPF6Xu
— FBI (@FBI) December 2, 2025
How Scammers Operate
The scams may involve emails, phone calls, crowdfunding pages, social media posts or websites that appear to be the online home for legitimate nonprofit organizations.
Related
Federal officials say scammers may also impersonate contractors, government agencies, or relief workers offering cleanup or recovery services. In many cases, victims are asked to pay up front and receive nothing in return.
Protecting Yourself from Charity and Disaster-Relief Fraud
The FBI recommends several steps to avoid fraud, including verifying the legitimacy of any charity before donating, avoiding unsolicited links or attachments and using secure payment methods such as credit cards instead of cash, gift cards, cash apps or wire transfers.
Officials also advise donors that they should try to determine if a charity is registered and research how it uses its funds.
Suspicious activity can be reported to the Internet Crime Complaint Center at ic3.gov or to the National Center for Disaster Fraud.
Staying Informed and Safe
Crime in The News
Conclusion
As the holiday season approaches, it’s essential to be aware of the potential for charity and disaster-relief fraud. By being cautious and taking the necessary steps to verify the legitimacy of charities and relief organizations, you can help protect yourself and your loved ones from falling victim to these scams. Remember to always research charities before donating and to use secure payment methods to ensure that your donations are going to those in need.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are some common signs of charity and disaster-relief fraud?
A: Common signs of charity and disaster-relief fraud include unsolicited emails, phone calls, or social media posts asking for donations, as well as websites or crowdfunding pages that appear to be legitimate but are actually scams.
Q: How can I verify the legitimacy of a charity or relief organization?
A: You can verify the legitimacy of a charity or relief organization by researching their website, checking for reviews and ratings, and contacting the organization directly to ask about their mission, goals, and financial information.
Q: What should I do if I suspect that I have fallen victim to charity and disaster-relief fraud?
A: If you suspect that you have fallen victim to charity and disaster-relief fraud, you should report the incident to the Internet Crime Complaint Center at ic3.gov or to the National Center for Disaster Fraud, and contact your bank or credit card company to report any suspicious activity.
