As the Ebola outbreak continues in West Africa and concerns of its spread persist in the U.S., groups are warning consumers to be vigilant of scams that claim to be helping victims.
The Better Business Bureau says online fundraising pages are popping up and solicitors are making phone calls and sending emails claiming to raise money to fight Ebola. BBB Serving Wisconsin President and CEO Ran Hoth said they may not all be legitimate.
“Just within the last couple weeks, just one crowdfunding, online site has opened more than 100 different appeals for Ebola campaigns. That is very scary for everyone who’s thinking about how they might help,” said Hoth.
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That included a page claiming to raise money for one of the Dallas nurses that contracted Ebola. Her family did not authorize the site, and the BBB helped shut it down.
Hoth said that people wanting to donate money can find out if a charity is legitimate through the BBB.
“We’ve got to get people to slow down,” said Hoth. “Get with their heart, but use their head. Do some research. Don’t get involved with opening any links or looking at some website that looks like a great looking charity but really hasn’t been properly vetted.”
Wisconsin state officials say they have not yet received any complaints about Ebola-related charity scams within the state.
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