Story perspectives

Verify Charities: BBB and AG Warn Donors

12/3/2025

Summary

Story summary

On Giving Tuesday, the Better Business Bureau advises donors to give directly through official charity websites to ensure funds are used properly.
Illinois Attorney General Raoul cautions donors to verify charities, especially those soliciting through social media.
He recommends checking charity registration and asking about operations.
He warns against high-pressure tactics and advises using secure payment methods.

History

Historical Context

The Charity Fraud Prevention Act, enacted in 2001, empowered the Federal Trade Commission to combat fraudulent charity solicitations, enhancing donor protection. This legislation emerged amid rising concerns over charity fraud, which has continued to escalate, particularly with the rise of online fundraising. In 2017, the Fraud Advisory Panel called for regulation of fundraising pages to address increasing fraud risks, highlighting ongoing challenges in ensuring transparency in charitable giving.

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Story summary

On Giving Tuesday, the Better Business Bureau advises donors to give directly through official charity websites to ensure funds are used properly.
Illinois Attorney General Raoul cautions donors to verify charities, especially those soliciting through social media.
He recommends checking charity registration and asking about operations.
He warns against high-pressure tactics and advises using secure payment methods.

1 / 2