Coronavirus Crisis Fuels Surge in Charity Scams
Fraudsters are cashing in on the COVID-19 pandemic, launching a wave of scams targeting charities. Police have sounded the alarm over a spike in coronavirus-related fraud and cybercrime.
Charities at Risk: Fraudsters Eye PPE and Payments
Charities, especially those supporting local communities through the coronavirus crisis, are prime targets. Scammers are exploiting every opportunity, from bogus PPE sales to dodgy bank details.
Fake PPE Sales Scam
Fraudsters pose as suppliers selling essential protective gear like face masks and gloves. They take payments but deliver nothing or fake, substandard products.
Tip: Always double-check suppliers before buying. Talk with trustees and volunteers if you’re unsure.
Watch Out for CEO Fraud and Bank Mandate Swaps
Scammers impersonate senior staff, asking charities to switch payment accounts. Then, they divert funds into their own pockets.
“An employee working from home got an email claiming to be from a trusted service provider. It instructed payments to a new bank account controlled by fraudsters.”
Tip: Follow strict validation procedures whenever you receive requests to change banking info.
Phishing Attacks on the Rise
Scam emails pretending to be from reputable organisations are flooding inboxes. They lure victims with fake offers, like lists of vulnerable elderly people needing charity support, to trick them into clicking malicious links.
These links lead to fake websites or demands for cryptocurrency payments such as Bitcoin.
Tip: Never click on suspicious links or attachments, and don’t share personal or financial info in unsolicited messages.
Beware of Unsolicited Offers and Advance Fee Frauds
Fraudsters make fake offers of goods, services, or financial help — but demand fees upfront. Just because someone knows your charity’s name doesn’t mean they’re legit.
Tip: Don’t rush into decisions. Pressure tactics are a huge red flag.
Lock Down Your Digital Defences
- Keep all software and apps up to date to block new threats.
- Take extra security steps for staff working remotely.
- Protect the personal data of your staff and beneficiaries — especially when switching to new digital platforms.
Stay vigilant. Don’t let scammers exploit your good work during the pandemic.
