# How to avoid fundraising scams at Christmas

- Link: https://fundraising.co.uk/2013/12/10/avoid-fundraising-scams-christmas/
- Published: 2013-12-10T15:11:24+00:00
- Author: Howard Lake

**The Charity Commission has published tips for the public on how to spot, avoid
and report fundraising scams at Christmas.**

1.         Before giving, check the charity’s name and registration number.  You
can verify this at the [Charity Commission’s website](http://www.charitycommission.gov.uk).
The charity’s profile shows whether or not the organisation is up to date with its
annual reporting requirements.

2.         When approached by collectors, check whether they are wearing a proper
ID badge and that any collection tin is sealed.
3.         If in doubt, ask the 
collector for more information – a genuine fundraiser should be happy to answer 
questions and explain more about the work of the charity.4.         Genuine fundraising
materials should feature the charity’s name, registered name and a landline contact
number.  Be wary of those that list only a mobile number.5.         Look for the
FRSB tick logo indicating that the charity is signed up to fundraising regulation,
encouraging you to [give with confidence](http://www.givewithconfidence.org.uk).
6.         To check whether a fundraiser is authorised to collect money in a public
place, contact your local authority or, if in London, the police. If it is a private
place, check with the owner.7.         Take care when responding to emails or clicking
links to a charity’s website to ensure that they are genuine. Instead, search online
for your favourite charity to check you have the right web address.8.         Carefully
review collection bags for clothing and household goods to ascertain whether they
are from a genuine charity.9.         After making these checks, if you think that
a collection or appeal is not legitimate, report it to Action Fraud on 0300 123 
2040 and inform the Charity Commission.10.      If in any doubt, contact your favoured
charity direct to make a donation. _Photo: [Christmas collecting tin](http://www.shutterstock.com/pic-64688398/stock-photo-christmas-charity-collection-tin-studio-cutout.html)
by Chris Brignell on Shutterstock.com_

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