Disaster-Relief Charity Impersonation
After a hurricane, wildfire, or other disaster, scammers impersonate relief charities to collect 'donations' that never reach victims.
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What this scam is
In the days after a disaster, fake charities and impostors of real ones flood in, soliciting donations by phone, social media, and email, sometimes with heart-wrenching images. They pressure you to give immediately by gift card, crypto, or card, and the money goes to the scammer. Real charities welcome research and give you time; scammers rush you and prefer untraceable payments. Sound-alike names to real charities are common.
What it usually looks like
- Urgent donation appeals right after a disaster.
- Names similar to well-known charities.
- Pressure to give now by gift card or crypto.
- Emotional images and stories.
Common warning signs
- Pressure to donate immediately.
- Requests for gift cards or crypto donations.
- Sound-alike charity names.
- Vague answers about how funds are used.
Example wording scammers use
“Families lost everything in the fire — donate now by gift card to help before it's too late.”
“We're the disaster relief fund; send crypto to rush aid to victims today.”
These are illustrative examples written by ScamSplain, not real messages.
What the scammers want
- Untraceable 'donations.'
- Your card details.
- To exploit compassion and urgency.
What to do
- Research a charity before giving (Charity Navigator, the BBB Wise Giving Alliance).
- Give directly through the charity's official website.
- Never donate by gift card or crypto.
- Take your time; ignore pressure.
What to do if you already responded
- Dispute a card donation if you believe it was fraudulent.
- Report the fake charity to your state charity regulator.
- Report at reportfraud.ftc.gov.