Earthquakes in Turkey and Syria: Tips on how to recognize fraudsters and ensure your donation really goes through
The willingness to donate is currently very high - especially after the recent devastating earthquake in Turkey and Syria. Experience has shown that fraudsters exploit compassion to enrich themselves - the police in Lower Saxony have already become aware of a first case. That's why the Lower Saxony State Criminal Police Office (LKA) warns against fake fundraisers.
A text message from an unknown sender: Would the addressee want to help and donate to the earthquake victims in Turkey? The following is a link that did not lead to a relief organization as advertised. The SMS recipient ignored the request and reported the matter to the police. There was no financial damage.
However, fake fundraisers don't just act via SMS; they approach helpful people in person, on the Internet or on the street, always with the aim of profiting from the misery of others.
To ensure that donations actually reach where they are needed, the LKA Lower Saxony advises:
- If you receive requests for donations via email, messenger or SMS, do not click on any attached links or attachments. These can lead to phishing sites or malware.
- Don't let official-looking or well-known logos on cover letters or within messages entice you to make a spontaneous donation.
- Never give the money to unknown people, but rather donate it to institutions and aid organizations you know.
- Don't feel pressured when donating. Decide calmly who you donate your money to. If fundraisers act aggressively and threateningly, call the police.
- You should be particularly suspicious of emotional appeals and fear-mongering messages. Check whether the sender of these appeals and messages is really reputable.
- Reputable organizations can be identified more easily with the help of the German Central Institute for Social Issues (DZI). The DZI regularly checks organizations and associations and then awards a donation seal if the quality criteria are met. The DZI also publishes warnings. The list can be viewed online at: www.dzi.de.
- Fake fundraisers should be reported, either to the nearest police station or via online guard, link
www.onlinewache.polizei.niedersachsen.de.
Source: Lower Saxony State Criminal Police Office
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