Give Wisely This Holiday Season: How to Avoid Charity Fraud

Date: November 13, 2025
Category: Fraud Education

During the holiday season, many people feel inspired to give back to the causes close to their hearts. Unfortunately, it’s also a time when scammers step up their game to take advantage of that generosity. 

At Wright-Patt Credit Union® (WPCU®), we believe it’s important to give back and do good in our communities. It’s also important to give wisely, and make sure your hard-earned money is going toward the causes you care about — not into a scammer’s pockets. 

Watch out for these common charity scams:

1. Phony Charities and Donation Pages

Scammers will create websites or link to donation pages on social media with names and logos that look like real organizations. They tug at their victims’ heartstrings with emotional photos and stories to pressure their victims into giving without doing further research. 

2. Impersonation Scams

Some scammers take it a step further by pretending to be actual well-known charities, organizations or disaster relief groups. With the rise of artificial intelligence (AI), scammers are increasingly impersonating celebrities and influencers on social media, creating convincing videos that solicit donations or promote fake fundraising pages.

3. Direct Contact

Be cautious of phone calls, emails, texts, social media messages or even door-to-door requests asking you for donations. Watch for warning signs like poor spelling and grammar or unusual payment instructions (like gift cards, wire transfer or cryptocurrency). If someone is pressuring you to give on the spot without verifying their organization, that’s a red flag too.

Tips to Protect Yourself and Give Wisely:

  • Do your research. Before giving, look up the charity on a trusted site like GuideStar.com or CharityNavigator.com. You’ll find out if the organization is legitimate and learn how donations are used. 
  • Give directly. Instead of donating via social media or clicking the link in an email or text, visit a charity’s website directly to ensure you’re donating to the right place. 
  • Trust your gut. If something doesn’t feel right, it’s okay to say no. Take your time and only give if you feel comfortable. If someone pressures you to give or pay right away, it’s a sure sign of a scam.  
  • Keep your records. Be sure to save your receipt or confirmation email after making a donation. Not only will you have documentation in case of fraud, but charitable donation receipts will also come in handy during tax season. 

Did You Know? How WPCU® Gives Back 

The WPCU Sunshine Community Fund® is the charitable giving arm of Wright-Patt Credit Union®. As a 501(c)(3) public foundation, the WPCU Sunshine Community Fund works closely with nonprofits that help improve, strengthen and safeguard the financial security of vulnerable populations within our community.

A gift to the WPCU Sunshine Community Fund changes lives through financial learning programs, homebuyer support and a commitment to the well-being of our communities. Learn how you can support by visiting the Sunshine Community Fund website directly at https://www.wpcu.coop/sunshinecommunityfund.

Ready for More Fraud Prevention Tips?

Visit our Fraud Prevention page or stop by a Member Center to talk with one of our friendly, knowledgeable Financial Coaches. We’re here to help you stay one step ahead of the scammers during the giving season and all year long!