Scam Targets Religious Groups

by Mindy Cohn

A new scam targets religious groups through emails and texts requesting donations for religious causes in the form of cash or gift cards.

The emails and texts appear to be from particular houses of worship, as religious groups are more apt to donate to religious causes. 

Recipients are advised not to trust or click on any links or numbers sent, even if the sender's name looks familiar. First, verify the sender by contacting directly after closely looking at the email address. If the domain shows that the email is not from a religious organization and instead is sent from a general account such as Gmail or AOL, that could be a warning that the email is a scam.

As for a text, if the area code is not local, be wary in case it's a scam. Messages expressing urgency are signs of a scam, as are assurances that funds will be promptly repaid. 

Staying one step ahead of scammers is essential - and often, the best way to do that is to stay informed.

photo credit: Flickr