Common giving scams and how to spot them

December is a season of giving, and the uptick in donations over the year's final month evidences charitable spirit. Perhaps inspired by Giving Tuesday, which is celebrated annually on the first Tuesday after Thanksgiving, donors tend to be especially generous in December. According to Donorbox, an online fundraising platform that facilitates charitable donations, 31 percent of yearly charitable giving happens in December.

Nonprofit organizations undoubtedly recognize the spirit of generosity that surfaces each December, but criminals are likely cognizant of individuals' desire to give back during the holiday season as well. Indeed, a 2023 press release from the United States Attorney's Office in the Western District of North Carolina cited fake charities as one of the most common scams encountered by consumers during the holiday season. With that in mind, well-meaning prospective donors can learn to recognize common giving scams to ensure they are not victimized by criminals looking to prey on their generosity this holiday season.



Scammers prey on individuals' generosity each holiday season. More information about giving scams and how to avoid them is available at consumer.ftc.

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