Better Business Bureau issues warning over donation scams in wake of recent tragedies
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PITTSBURGH – While many good Samaritans want to offer financial support to families facing tragedies, a new trend has scammers taking advantage of these waves of goodwill.
Officials from the Better Business Bureau of Western Pennsylvania are advising the public to be wary of a new wave of donation scams. According to a press release from the organization, scammers are taking advantage of the goodwill from the public on high-profile tragedies, including the injury of Buffalo Bills player Damar Hamlin and the murder of Brackenridge Police Chief Justin McIntire.
While there are legitimate fundraisers for community members to contribute to at this time, the Better Business Bureaus of Upstate New York and Western Pennsylvania have identified scammers are taking advantage of the situation. Many crowdfunding platforms have been notified of the potential scams, but these campaigns may still gain some traction via social media.
“In the wake of both circumstances, well-intentioned donors understandably want to help and provide proactive support in any way possible,” says Caitlin Driscoll, public relations director of the Better Business Bureau of Western PA. “BBB is warning potential donors to remain vigilant and always ensure your money is benefiting the intended cause and going to the right place prior to donating.”
According to the bureau, the Hamlin family has verified that the GoFundMe supporting the Chasing M's foundation was started by Damar in 2020. Members of the Tarentum Borough Police Department have also posted an official link to donate to Chief McIntire's family, which is going through the accredited Fund the First organization.
Donors are reminded to do their research before sending any funds, as scammers can make convincing pages online. Officials from the Better Business Bureau advise donors that pictures do not represent an official connection, as scammers may be using these photos without permission from the families involved. Donors should also be wary of the ways that sites operate, as some sites do not vet their campaign organizers before they are allowed to post a fundraiser.
This article originally appeared on Beaver County Times: Better Business Bureau issues warning over recent donation scams
