🎁 How to Spot Fake Charity Scams During the Holidays

The holiday season is a time of generosity. Between Giving Tuesday, year-end donations, and countless community drives, many people open their hearts—and their wallets—to support causes they care about. Unfortunately, cybercriminals see this generosity as an opportunity.

Each year, fake charities and donation scams spike during the holidays. At Coulson Technologies, we want your kindness to go where it’s needed most—not into a scammer’s pocket. Here’s how to stay safe while giving this season.

1. Verify Before You Give

Scammers often create websites and social media pages that look just like real charities. Before donating:

• Check the organization’s official website URL carefully.
  

• Look for them on trusted resources like Charity Navigator, Guidestar, or the Better Business Bureau’s Wise Giving Alliance.
  

• If in doubt, contact the charity directly using a verified phone number or email.

2. Be Wary of Urgent Appeals

Fraudsters thrive on urgency, especially during the holidays. They may send messages that pressure you to “act now” to save lives or secure matching donations. Legitimate charities appreciate prompt help, but they won’t try to guilt or scare you into giving.

3. Watch Out for Phishing Emails & Fake Social Posts

Emails, text messages, and even fake social media fundraisers are common scam tactics.

• Don’t click on links in unsolicited donation requests.
  

• Instead, type the charity’s official website into your browser.
  

• Be cautious of fundraisers on platforms you don’t recognize—stick to verified campaigns.

4. Use Secure Payment Methods

When donating online, always use secure payment options like credit cards or reputable digital wallets (PayPal, Apple Pay). Avoid wire transfers, prepaid gift cards, or giving out your banking details—these are all red flags.

5. Keep an Eye on Red Flags

Here are some common warning signs of a fake charity:

• The name sounds similar to a well-known nonprofit but isn’t the same.
  

• The website URL is misspelled or slightly different from the real one.
  

• They demand payment in cash, cryptocurrency, or gift cards.
  

• They refuse to provide documentation about their mission or finances.

6. Double-Check Tax Deductibility

If you’re donating for tax purposes, confirm the organization is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit. The IRS has a searchable online database where you can quickly check.

💡 Give with Confidence This Season

Your generosity can make a powerful difference during the holidays. By staying alert, verifying organizations, and using secure payment methods, you can ensure your donations reach the causes that matter most to you.

At Coulson Technologies, we’re committed to protecting not only your digital world but also your peace of mind. This holiday season, give with confidence—knowing your kindness is truly making an impact.

Happy Holidays, and thank you for giving safely! 🎄