The crisis in Syria and the subsequent surge of migrating refugees have been front and centre in the news lately.
The call for governments to do more to help the struggling Syrians displaced by war has increased, and this sentiment is being felt on the local level as people open their hearts and wallets to help their fellow humans, according to a release from Better Business Bureau.
“Tragedies generate a lot of sympathies but, as we’ve seen in the past, they also attract a host of scammers who care little for the cause and only want your money,” says Evan Kelly of BBB serving Mainland BC. “BBB simply wants to remind those who want to give to be aware of questionable solicitations, websites or crowdfunding campaigns that ultimately have little to do with helping people.”
BBB offers these tips to consider before donating money:
• Be cautious when giving online. Be wary of spam messages and emails that claim to link to reputable relief organizations. Go directly to the charities’ websites.
• Watch for bad grammar.
• Hover your mouse over a link to determine destination.
• Make sure website has “https//” in the URL.
• Fake websites with the right look and feel can be set up quickly, so go to the website yourself and avoid any spam.
• Give to charities you have given to in the past.
• Be wary of claims 100% of your money is going to the affected area. Charitable organizations cost money to run so it’s unlikely every penny will go directly to those in need.
• Be cautious of third party recommendations for charities. The Canada Revenue Agency has a list of all registered charities in Canada. Financial statements are available as well.
• Find out if the charity has a presence on the ground in impacted areas. If not, it may be difficult to bring in new aid workers to provide assistance quickly.
• Be wary of crowdfunding. Many instances in the past found crooks setting up crowding funding sites to raise money for themselves under the guise of help. Reach; establish credibility.
• Be cautious if solicited by a charity at your door. Ask plenty of questions: Ask for mission statement, ID and tax deductible receipt, and avoid paying in cash. And contact the organization directly to see if they have people working in your area.
If you have concerns or think you might be the victim of a scam, go to www.bbb.org/mbc and contact your local authorities.
For Canada Revenue information, visit: www.cra-arc.gc.ca
