Quick Answer: Report fake charities to your state Attorney General’s office, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at ReportFraud.ftc.gov, and the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at IC3.gov. Verify charity legitimacy at IRS.gov or GuideStar before donating.
What is a Fake Charity Scam?
Fake charity scams involve criminals posing as legitimate charities to steal donations. These scams spike after natural disasters, during holidays, and following major tragedies. Scammers use phone calls, emails, social media, and door-to-door solicitations to request donations.
Like romance scams and fake websites, charity scammers create convincing fake identities to steal your money.
Where to Report a Fake Charity
1. State Attorney General or Charities Bureau
Every state regulates charities. Find your state AG at NAAG.org
2. Federal Trade Commission (FTC)
Website: ReportFraud.ftc.gov
Phone: 1-877-FTC-HELP
3. FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3)
Website: IC3.gov (for online charity scams)
4. IRS Tax Exempt Organization Division
Report fake 501(c)(3) organizations at IRS.gov
How to Verify a Charity Before Donating
IRS Tax Exempt Search: IRS.gov search
GuideStar: GuideStar.org (view Form 990 tax returns)
Charity Navigator: CharityNavigator.org
BBB Wise Giving Alliance: Give.org
Red Flags of Fake Charities
- High-pressure tactics (“donate now or miss out”)
- Request for cash, gift cards, or wire transfers
- Vague mission or won’t provide details
- Thanks you for a pledge you never made
- Name sounds similar to well-known charities
- Won’t provide EIN (Employer Identification Number)
- No verifiable address or phone number
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I report a charity if I just suspect it’s fake?
Yes. You don’t need proof—report suspicious charities to your state AG and FTC. They will investigate.
How do I know if a charity is tax-deductible?
Only IRS-recognized 501(c)(3) organizations are tax-deductible. Search at IRS.gov
What if I already donated to a fake charity?
Report immediately to FTC, IC3, and your state AG. Contact your bank or credit card company to dispute the charge. File a police report.