Say goodbye to GoFundMe scams: This are the signs you should look for to spot them
GoFundMe is one of the most popular crowdfunding platforms in the world.
GoFundMe is one of the most popular platforms for personal fundraising, covering medical expenses, emergencies, and other life events and is widely known for it its ease of use and widespread reach.
However the donation based portal has also become a target for unscrupulous scammers who play upon people’s good nature.
Even though the platform has a team who use a series of technical tools, machine learning and video and image review to identify misuse, scammers can infiltrate the platform and create causes that are nothing more than a manner of getting your money.
If you want to help those impacted by the California wildfires, share their fundraiser links.
— GoFundMe (@gofundme) January 10, 2025
GoFundMe research shows that every time an organizer shares their fundraiser, it can help drive an additional $100 toward their goal, on average. pic.twitter.com/z3DlUIY1gx
Tell tell signs for suspicious GoFundMe accounts
Misleading or factually incorrect information: Check for incorrect names, addresses, occupations or ages.
Vague fundraisers with few details about the beneficiary or family: The fundraiser should offer concrete information about the organization requesting help. It should also detail the purpose of the fundraiser and how the funds will be used. Sometimes criminals raise money on behalf of a person facing challenges with no intention of giving them the money,
A lack of digital presence: Check to see whether you can find an image or video of the fundraiser or beneficiary. Try using Google Reverse Image Search to look for other pictures of the fundraiser beneficiary to help verify their identity.
Organizers with new social media accounts and few followers: This can be a red flag indicating a fake account, a fake cause and impersonation.
Minimal or no communication from fundraiser organizer: If you try to contact the organizer and don’t get an adequate response, it could be a sign that something is wrong.
Signs of impersonation: Check to see if you’ve read the fundraiser story somewhere else before; that could indicate it’s a scam.
If you have concerns about a GoFundMe campaign being genuine, tiy can contact the platform via the website or via email to raise concerns. You can report as someone who has been impersonated or as someone who suspects a fundraiser may be fraudulent.
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