The holidays bring out the best in people. It's a time for giving.
The crooks are out too. "All kinds of scam artists"... looking to prey on your generosity.
"You don't want to believe people are out there to be evil," says Melanie Duquesnel, with the BBB.
"We don't have a prepared 'no thank you' speech or a prepared 'I'd like to know more about what your doing'. Having that prep in place ahead of time is going to be huge."
So you aren't left off guard by a solicitor.
The pros also have these top 5 giving tips to help you avoid becoming a victim.
1) Resist pressure to give on the spot, whether from a telemarketer or door-to-door solicitor.
2) Press for specifics. If the charity says it's helping the homeless, for example, ask how and where it's working.
3) Check websites for basics. A charity's mission, program and finances should be available on its site.
4) Check with state charity officials. Charities are required to register, usually with the office of the attorney general.
5) Be wary of emotional appeals.
Millennials are being targeted rapidly on social media. And the elderly, as always, remain high on a swindler's list.
Below you can find helpful links to state and charity watchdog databases.
BBB Holiday Helper:
http://www.bbb.org/council/holiday-helper/
Other Resources:
www.give.org
http://www.charitynavigator.org/
State Database:
http://www.michigan.gov/ag/0,4534,7-164-17337_18095---,00.html
