The holidays bring kindness, generosity, and goodwill. Sadly, they also bring scammers who use that same spirit to trick donors. Every year, fake charities and online frauds multiply as people open their hearts and wallets.
If you read our earlier articles on charity scams during tax season (Safeguarding Generosity) and verifying online charities after tragedies (How to Verify Online Charities After Tragedies), you already know scammers thrive on emotion. The holiday season offers the perfect mix of urgency and goodwill, making it their busiest time of year.
Why Holiday Charity Scams Surge
According to the Federal Trade Commission, scammers often create convincing names and websites that mimic trusted organizations. They pressure donors to “act now” or risk missing a matching gift opportunity.
The FBI also reports an increase in fake emails and calls during November and December. These criminals pretend to represent local charities, first responders, or veterans’ groups.
At year’s end, many people rush to make tax-deductible donations. That sense of urgency is exactly what scammers count on.
How the Scams Work
Fraudsters reuse the same tricks with seasonal twists. Here are the most common ones:
- Copycat charities that use names nearly identical to legitimate groups.
- Emotional appeals that claim a family, pet shelter, or disaster relief fund needs help “right now.”
- Unusual payment methods such as gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers.
- Links in emails or social media posts that lead to fake donation sites.
StaySafeOnline notes that scammers are increasingly active on social media and messaging apps. A “friend’s” share may look trustworthy, but it could be part of a larger fraud campaign.
Five Ways to Protect Your Generosity
- Research before donating.
Look up the charity on Charity Navigator, GuideStar, or the IRS Tax Exempt Organization Search. Do not rely only on social media or text messages. - Go directly to the official website.
If you receive a link by email or text, type the charity’s web address into your browser instead. Fake links often lead to look-alike sites that steal your payment information. - Use safe payment methods.
Pay with a credit card or check, never with a gift card or cryptocurrency. The FTC confirms that legitimate charities do not request these forms of payment. - Resist pressure.
As noted in Safeguarding Generosity, real charities welcome donations at any time. High-pressure tactics are a warning sign. - Keep records and confirm charges.
Save your receipt and check your bank or credit card statement afterward. Do verify that the payment went to the right place.
Why This Year Requires Extra Caution
In a September 2025 article, the FTC warned that scammers are using crowdfunding and social media to look legitimate, and that trend is accelerating during the holiday season.
The National Cybersecurity Alliance has raised similar warning.
More giving happens online each year, which makes verification essential. Before donating, pause for a moment, confirm the website, and think about whether the story feels authentic.
Give With Heart and Confidence
True generosity is about helping others, not reacting to pressure or guilt. By taking a few minutes to research before you give, you ensure your kindness reaches the people who truly need it.
Resources:
Stay generous. Stay alert. Let your gift make the difference you intended.
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