Using fake charities to commit fraud, often referred to as "charity scams" or "donation scams," can vary depending on the specific scheme and scammer, but here's a general overview of how the scam might be executed: 1. **Research and select a recipient organization or cause**: The scammer will choose a real charity or cause, usually a well-known or popular one that people can easily sympathize with. This might be a cause like helping victims of natural disasters, children's medical issues, or support for veterans. 2. **Create a fake or imposter charity**: The scammer will create a charity with a similar name, mission, and website to that of a legitimate charity. They may also create a new entity with a similar name or a minor variation of the legitimate organization's name, but with a different address, contact information, and bank account. 3. **Create a facade of legitimacy**: The scammer will create a website that looks legitimate and may even contain doctored or copied images, videos, and information from a legitimate charity. They may also use social media, email marketing, and online advertising to promote their fake charity. 4. **Create a convenient way to donate and pay**: The scammer will create an easy and intuitive donation process, usually involving paying online, making a donation over the phone, or mailing a check or cash. They may also offer so-called "sponsorship" or "membership" programs, which may guarantee automatic monthly deductions or donations on a fixed schedule. 5. **Use of emotional manipulation**: Scammers may create a sense of urgency, sympathy, or guilt to convince people to donate, such as: - Claiming that a specific victim will directly benefit from the donation. - Promising photos or personal thank-you notes for the donation. - Making donors feel that their donation will be matched or multiplied with donations from a larger, more trusted organization. 6. **Deception and forgery**: Scammers may claim that their fake charity has official accreditation, registration, or certification, which does not exist. They may also use fake or stolen reviews, testimonials, or success stories to create a false sense of trust and reputation among donors. 7. **Follow-up and maintenance**: Scammers may follow up with donors to thank them for their donation and encourage repeat donations. They may also share fake updates or results, claiming that donors have made an impact or change. To protect yourself from this type of scam, be cautious of requests for donations, whether online or offline. Verify the charity’s legitimacy through official channels and check reviews on the Exotic Animal Registry, the Better Business Bureau, and rating platforms like Charity Navigator. It’s also important to verify their contact information, physical address, and tax exemption status.