Warning: Criminals often exploit crises, such as the current COVID-19 pandemic, by setting up fake charities to steal from people.

According to the IRS, fraudulent schemes normally start with unsolicited contact by telephone, text, social media, e-mail or in-person using a variety of tactics. “They may even claim to be working for or on behalf of the IRS to help victims file casualty loss claims and get tax refunds,” the IRS states.

Bogus websites use names similar to those of legitimate charities to trick people to send money or provide personal financial information. Be particularly wary of charities with names that mimic those of nationally known organizations.