Fake charity collectors are targeting doorsteps across Greater Manchester - some using the coronavirus as a ruse.
Since April there have been 14 cases recorded by Greater Manchester Police of crimes in relation to suspected bogus charity collectors.
They have been asking for donations for local schools, a dogs home charity, and people made unemployed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Five crimes relate to an ongoing investigation with a named suspect. GMP also have three other crimes which are linked.
Fraudsters have tricked people by posing as a collector for a charity that doesn’t exist or using the name of a genuine, well-known charity and claiming they represent them
They have also claimed to be taking part in a sponsorship event or asked people to donate clothing or household items - which they have then sold.
Detective Sergeant Stacey Shannon, of GMP’s Economic Crime Hub, said: “Prying on people’s sympathy on false pretences and using it for personal gain is truly despicable. Of course there are many legitimate charity collectors fundraising for good causes and every pound given to a scam charity is a pound less that can be donated to a worthy and reputable cause, so it’s important that people follow our advice when giving to charity.”
How to spot the signs of a fake charity collector
- Their promotional material or website may be badly written or have spelling mistakes.
- The charity collector might be vague about what the charity does or is fundraising for.
- They might be aggressive or try to pressure you into donating.
- They could use topical events such as a natural disaster as an excuse for their charity only being created recently.
How to protect yourself
- Ask – genuine charity collectors will be more than happy to give you more information about the cause and answer your questions about where your money is going.
- Check – they should have a registered charity number, you can check this through the Charity Commission. They should also have a license if they are collecting in a public place.
- Go direct – if you are in doubt, contact the charity yourself and check (do not use the details provided to you be the collector).
- Take your time – don’t feel pressured to donate then and there. Take your time to think it over and you can donate directly to the charity at a later time.
How to report it
If you think you have been a victim of charity fraud, report it to Action Fraud by calling 0300 123 2040 or visiting www.actionfraud.police.uk.
You can also follow the @gmpfraud Twitter account to stay up to date with the latest scam advice.
