VIDEO: How to protect yourself from online scams in the wake of the Orlando tragedy
In the wake of this weekend’s shooting at an Orlando gay nightclub that killed 49 people and injured 53, people across the country came together to support those who were affected. Many lined up in long lines to donate blood in Orlando, and others donated money online.
More than 47,823 people raised more than $2 million in one day through a GoFundMe page set up by Florida’s largest LBGT advocacy group, Equality Florida. When tragedy strikes, humans are known to come together to help others pick up the broken pieces.
With the internet making it easier to quickly donate, and also easier to quickly scam, certain precautions should be taken when donating online. If you’re considering donating, experts from the Better Business Bureau and charitynavigator.org say to consider these things before donating online.
Reputability of charity
Review the validity of the organization to which you plan to donate. Websites like the bbb.org and charitynavigator.com can provide information on business practices as well as the evaluation of U.S.-based charities.
Use of your donation
How will the funds be used? According to Charity Navigator’s website, find the answer to this question before committing to an organization. Find out if the charity’s finances are transparent, and what the money will be used for.
Never give donations via social media
Social media is used to spread information quickly, whether true or otherwise. This is another avenue criminals take to scam generous donors. In times of heightened emotional circumstances, double-check the links you click on and triple check the source of the story and donation link, according to the BBB.
Secured sites
Donate through a secured site only. Examine the web address; most nonprofit websites end in an “.org” rather than a “.com.” Avoid website addresses that end in a series of numbers, or that ask for personal information such as Social Security numbers, bank account information, or anything making it easier for your identity to be stolen, according to experts at charitynavigator.com.
Even though there are online scams, don’t be afraid to donate. Do your research and use the resources in this article to aide you in making the best decision.