CHARITY FRAUD
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Charity fraud is similar to telemarketing fraud in that an individual may receive an unsolicited request from an organization claiming to be a charity.  Sometimes, the organization may offer discounted items such as magazines, light bulbs, trash bags, or other items.  Most of these agencies are legitimate, but many criminals prey on people's sense of compassion to make fraudulent income.  As with telemarketers, know the organization you are speaking with before committing to a donation. Know that some fraudulent charities have names that sound very much like legitimate organizations. Do not be pressured and do not give out sensitive information.  Ask for the breakdown of donations---how much goes to administration, how much to operating costs, how much to the actual cause?  If they cannot/will not reveal that information, this may be a sign of fraud.  Ask for written materials.  Any consumer/customer should have the opportunity to research the organization and this applies to charities as well.