How to avoid Ukraine charity scams, cybersecurity threats

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- State officials are warning New Yorkers about charity scams and increased cybersecurity threats related to Vladimir Putin’s invasion of Ukraine.

The warning comes as New York State Division of Consumer Protection has learned of fraudulent requests for charitable relief money to support victims of the war.

State officials are advising consumers to carefully evaluate any request for money and verify charities prior to donating money or supplies. Gov. Kathy Hochul is also encouraging New Yorkers to remain on guard when releasing sensitive information online amid an uptick in cybersecurity threats through the utilization of security recommendations from the Department of Taxation and Finance.

This follows the Governor’s formation of the Joint Security Operations Center, which serves as the center for joint local, state and federal cyber efforts.

“New York is home to the largest Ukrainian population in the United States, and New Yorkers always lend a helping hand to take care of those in need,” Hochul said. “However, we must remain cautious of those who try to commit fraud, taking advantage of others’ kindness. In your generosity to help our Ukrainian friends and family, remember if something seems suspicious, it likely is. Encourage your friends and family, especially elderly loved ones, to stay vigilant online.”

PROTECTING AGAINST FRAUD

When disasters occur, scam artists often prey on the heartstrings of individuals looking to help. State officials say the invasion of Ukraine provides an opportunity for fraudsters to set up fake charities or pose as compelling war victims. Others design websites to mimic a legitimate charity’s official site to steal unsuspecting donors’ money and/or personal information.

“New Yorkers are known for being supportive and generous to those in need,” said Secretary of State Robert J. Rodriguez. “As the war in the Ukraine rages on con artists will continue to appear using emotional ploys and fake solicitations in an attempt to bilk consumers.”

Officials say scammers often make contact via social media, unsolicited emails, phone calls, or text messages. They may ask to send money through a payment app like Cash App, Venmo or Zelle, wire the money to an offshore bank account, or send prepaid gift cards.

Many recent scams include requests for donations in cryptocurrency, such as Bitcoin or Ethereum. Scam artists are creative and will continue to think of new ways to defraud people, so consumers must always be vigilant.

HOW TO PROTECT AGAINST SCAMS

To prevent donation money from falling into the wrong hands, the New York State Division of Consumer Protection recommends taking the following precautions:

• Verify the request. Scammers are more frequently posing as friends, family or romantic interests on social media and requesting donations; it is easy to copy someone else’s photo and biographical information and create a fake account online, officials say. If you receive an unsolicited request for donation relief online, even if it appears to be someone you know, connect with the person directly through a different communication link to verify the request. Do not click on any links or complete forms before verifying the source. If the request is coming from someone you only recently met online, it is most likely a scam and you should be especially wary.
• Research the charity. Don’t rely on a charity website alone. Search online before donating to any charity using the name of the group plus search terms like “review” and “scam,” officials say. The Federal Trade Commission recommends checking with give.org, charitynavigator.org,charitywatch.org, or candid.org to see reports and ratings for charities. You can also check with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) for verification that a charity is registered. The Office of the Attorney General also recommends reviewing the Charities Registry for financial reports prior to donating to ensure the charity is fiscally sound.
• Resist high-pressure tactics. While the situation is urgent, consumers should resist being pressured to donate immediately. Scammers often pressure you to donate immediately, causing you to overlook red flags in their story. Beware of direct e-mails from ‘victims’ and solicitors who employ heart-wrenching stories, insisting that you donate immediately, the state warns. Do not to give money over the phone to unsolicited telemarketers; instead, ask the caller to send written materials about the charity and where to donate, if you choose.
• Keep personal information private. Never give your Social Security number, credit card or debit card number, or other personal identifying information in response to an unsolicited charitable request. If donating online, ensure that your internet connection is secure before following through on donation requests.
• Ask how your money will be spent. Consumers want to know that their money is going directly to the victims. A genuine charity should be able to let you know how much of your donation will go directly to the program as opposed to administrative fees.
• Donate by check or credit card. Never give money using cash, gift cards, crypto currency, or any manner that would be difficult to trace. Give your contribution by check or credit card to ensure that you have a record of the donation. Make checks out to the charity, not to an individual. If you choose to donate via a charity’s website, check that the website is secure and that your computer is equipped with the latest anti-virus protection.

If you suspect that you have encountered a fraudulent attempt to receive donations, you can file a complaint with the New York State Division of Consumer Protection at https://dos.ny.gov/file-consumer-complaint.

The Division’s Consumer Assistance Hotline is open Monday to Friday, excluding state holidays, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at (800) 697-1220. You can find more information and tips by following the Division of Consumer Protection on social media on Twitter (@NYSConsumer) and Facebook (www.facebook.com/nysconsumer).

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