Cyclone Chido caused considerable damage in Mayotte, leaving behind impoverished families and an island in need of rebuilding. In the face of this emergency, numerous initiatives to collect donations are flourishing on the Internet. Unfortunately, some of them are orchestrated by swindlers seeking to take advantage of Internet users' generosity. How can you tell the difference between genuine solidarity initiatives and scams? Here's our advice on how to make secure online donations.
1. Check the identity of the organization
Before you donate, find out more about the organization organizing the collection.
- Favour recognised associations : Médecins Sans Frontières, Croix-Rouge or other well-known NGOs.
- Do an online search: Type the name of the organization followed by terms such as “review” or “scam” to detect any alerts.
2. Beware of little-known donation platforms
If you use a crowdfunding platform, check its reputation.
- Choose reliable platforms such as Ulule, GoFundMe or Leetchi.
- Read the comments and campaign details: A vague description or lack of photos can be suspicious.
3. Don't click on suspicious links
Scammers often use social networks, e-mail or SMS to share fake links.
- Be careful: Avoid clicking on unsolicited links.
- Go directly to the official website: Type the address into your browser instead of following a link.
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4. Protect your banking data
Use secure payment methods to limit risk.
- Check site security: The URL must begin with “https://” and display a padlock in the navigation bar.
- Choose platforms such as PayPal or virtual bank cards: they offer better protection against fraud.
5. Find out where the money goes
A transparent organization must clearly indicate how donations will be used.
- Ask for details: What percentage goes directly to victims? Do the funds also cover administrative costs?
- Follow the news: Local media and the social networks of recognized NGOs provide valuable information on reliable initiatives.
The most common scams to avoid
- Fake appeals for donations on social networks: Beware of unverified accounts.
- Fraudulent e-mails: These messages urge you to act quickly and ask for your bank details.
- Fake charity sites: These sites imitate the real ones to collect your data.
Faced with an emergency situation like Cyclone Chido, it's crucial to remain vigilant while supporting humanitarian efforts. By following these tips, you'll be able to contribute safely to relief efforts and avoid falling into the trap of scammers.
Reminder: If you fall victim to an online scam, report it immediately on the Pharos and contact your bank.
Having second thoughts? Feeling like you're the target of a scam? Don't be left alone, contact our support team. They'll be Happy to help.
Frequently asked questions about donations
To check the reliability of a collection, use :
- Recognized NGOs (Red Cross, Médecins Sans Frontières, etc.).
- Well-known donation platforms (GoFundMe, Leetchi, Ulule).
- Search online by associating the name of the organization with words like scam or review.
Risks include :
- Theft of personal or banking data.
- Sending funds to crooks who don't help victims.
- Exposure to malware via fraudulent links.
Here are a few warning signs:
- Lack of clear details on the use of funds.
- Campaigns without photos, videos or precise descriptions.
- Sites without secure protocol (https:// or padlock in address bar).
- Links received by email or social networks from unknown sources.
- Report the scam on the Pharos platform.
- Contact your bank immediately to block suspicious transactions.
- Keep all evidence (e-mails, screenshots, exchanges).
- Secure platforms such as PayPal.
- Virtual bank cards to limit the exposure of your information.
- Avoid direct transfers or cash payments, which are difficult to trace.
Not always. Beware:
- Unverified accounts launching fundraising campaigns.
- Shortened or badly formatted links.
Search directly in your browser for official organization websites.
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