The Tennessee Attorney General’s Division of Consumer Affairs issued a press release reminding Tennesseans to be on the lookout for scams from illegitimate entities promoting fake fundraising and charity efforts in the wake of the tragedies that have recently occurred across the state.
Throughout the course of a few days, Tennessee – as described by Governor Bill Lee – has undergone “one of the most heartbreaking weeks” in the state’s history.
On March 27th, three children and three adults were killed by a 28-year-old gunman at The Covenant School in Nashville.
On March 29th, nine service members were killed in a nighttime training accident when two HH-60 Black Hawk helicopters crashed in a field near Fort Campbell, which is located on the Tennessee-Kentucky border.
In addition, on March 31st and April 1st, tornadoes and severe storms took 15 lives and caused significant damage in ten counties across Tennessee.
The Tennessee Attorney General’s Office wants to ensure that only legitimate businesses and charities are fundraising to help victims.
The office’s Division of Consumer Affairs is urging Tennesseans to keep a list of tips in mind when donating to charity or fundraising efforts to avoid falling victim to a scam. Signs of a charity scam may include:
- A “copy-cat” name that sounds like a reputable charity. Some scammers use names that closely resemble those of respected, legitimate organizations.
- Don’t let anyone rush you into donating.
- Cash-only donations. Instead, make checks payable to the charitable organization, and not to an individual collecting a donation.
- The caller refuses to disclose the organization’s mission, or how the money will be used.
- Lack of proof that your contribution is tax-deductible.
- If you’re donating via a crowdfunding site, find out who’s behind the request. Try finding out who the campaign organizer is. If you can’t find them online, or the details you find don’t match what they’re saying on the campaign page, be suspicious.
- Keep a record of all donations made. Review your bank statements closely to make sure you’re only charged the amount you agreed to donate.
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Kaitlin Housler is a reporter at The Tennessee Star and The Star News Network.
Photo “Tennessee Tornado Damage” by Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office.
