Fake GoFundMe Scams

GoFundMe scams have been around for a long time. One sheriff’s department has urged the public to file a police report if they’ve donated to a bogus crowdfunding campaign.

Who Is It Targeting

Citizens in the county of jurisdiction

What Is It

Crowdfunding scam that stole money from donors

What Are They After

Law enforcement officers in Walker County, Alabama, have issued a warning to their area residents about a bogus crowdfunding campaign that sought donations for locals in need of assistance. The sheriff’s department has gone on to encourage anyone who has donated to the campaign to file a police report with their department and provide PayPal receipts or bank receipts for their donations.

How Can You Avoid GoFundMe Scams

• Crowdfunding is a great way to help a specific cause that might have otherwise never gotten widespread attention or support.
• However, you cannot know what the person will do with the funds, or if the campaign is truly legitimate.
• Consider using a secure payment method or a credit card that will work to process a refund in the event you are the victim of fraud.
• As always, file a police report if your donation is used for fraudulent purposes.

If you think you may be a victim of identity theft or GoFundMe scams, contact the Identity Theft Resource Center for toll-free, no-cost assistance at (888) 400-5530. Find more information about current scams and alerts here.