Fraudsters are exploiting the generosity of kind-hearted donors who are helping Ukrainians in need amid the ongoing crisis in Ukraine. Cybersecurity and digital privacy firm Kaspersky warns against fake charity scams that continue to abound and target unsuspecting donors around the world.
Earlier this month, researchers at Kaspersky observed an increasing trend in the volume of scamming activities by fake donation websites that flood cyberspace. Such scams divert funds from legitimate organizations. Numerous phishing pages were reported to impersonate legitimate donations and charity websites. Kaspersky highlighted that such fraudulent activities not only steal victims’ money but also deprive legitimate groups of the much-needed donations.
Sample of a phishing page asking for donations.
Kaspersky also warns that fraudsters are making it easier and more convenient for their unsuspecting victims to transfer money from their credit cards or even cryptocurrency accounts.
Moreover, they also use high-pressure tactics—they stress the urgency of donations and use highly emotional language. Kaspersky researchers also spotted mass spam emails wherein fraudsters are posing as the victims their selves of conflicts in Ukraine. Fraudsters even beg for money transfers via bitcoin, while emphasizing that most banks are currently shut down in the country.
Sample of a phishing page asking for donations via bitcoin.
Lastly, fraudulent fundraising also attempts to seem more trustworthy as fraudsters exploit popular brands and celebrities—which may easily persuade people to instantly do good deeds.
This fake fundraiser claims to be supported by Elon Musk.
“The desire to help others is noble. Sadly, scammers try to exploit every opportunity to benefit themselves,” said David Emm, Principal Security Researcher at Kaspersky. “Throughout the past week, we have seen fraudsters spreading numerous fake charity pages and stealing money and credentials from users willing to help. It is crucially important to make sure that your donation will be put to good use, so always check the legitimacy of the fundraising you are signing up to.”
To stay protected from those charity scams, Kaspersky experts share these tips:
- Check the website and credentials of the charity. Legitimate ones are registered.
- Make donations directly to the charity organizations. It is safer to type in the charity’s URL address instead of clicking any link provided via email or chats.
- Refer only to well-known charitable institutions like the Red Cross.
- Remember that it is highly unlikely for conflict victims in Ukraine to directly contact you to ask for money.
- Stay vigilant. Fake websites may resemble genuine charity sites. Fraudulent sites are usually full of spelling or grammar mistakes and are not disclosing important information like contact details.
- Be careful when using social media for info. Take the time to do some research about a group before donating.
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